Minneapolis, MN - Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA), a Minneapolis-based non-profit dedicated to providing accessible industrial arts training programs for underrepresented youth, is excited to announce the launch of its new website and expanded program offerings. The organization also proudly celebrates Executive Director and Artist Carla Hall's recent Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, which will fund the upcoming Queer Youth Workshops and Twin Cities Pride 2024 Artists' Exhibit Hall.
The new IAMA website, https://iamayouth.org, serves as a comprehensive resource for youth, families, educators, and community members interested in exploring the transformative power of industrial arts. Visitors can learn about IAMA's mission, programs, and impact, as well as access information on upcoming workshops, events, and exhibitions. The creation, hosting, and functionality of the website were donated by Successful Marketing Group’s founder, Glory Ramsey.
"We are thrilled to launch our new website, which will help us connect with more youth and families in the Twin Cities," said Carla Hall, Executive Director and Artist at IAMA. "Our expanded program offerings, including the Queer Youth Workshops and Girls & Gender Expansive Empowerment programs, reflect our commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces for underrepresented youth to explore their creativity and build valuable skills."
IAMA's programs include Youth Field Trip Demonstrations, where school and community groups are invited to IAMA's North Minneapolis studio to observe demonstrations in blacksmithing, torch cutting, and welding; Queer Youth Workshops, providing a safe and affirming environment for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 12-24 to explore metal arts and industrial processes while building community; and Girls & Gender Expansive Empowerment, offering dynamic educational opportunities for girls, young women, and gender diverse youth who have been traditionally underrepresented in industrial art and educational spaces.
The 1st Queer Youth Workshops, made possible by Carla Hall's Creative Individuals grant, culminated in the Twin Cities Pride 2024 Artists' Exhibit Hall, showcasing the extraordinary sculptures and metalwork created by program participants. The exhibit coincided with this year’s Pride festival in Minneapolis. The IAMA Art Exhibit was on Sunday, June 30th, at the 4430 Lyndale Ave N MPLS studio.
"Receiving the Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board is a tremendous honor and validation of the important work we are doing at IAMA," said Hall. "This funding will allow us to provide an immersive, transformative experience for LGBTQIA+ youth, empowering them to express their identities and experiences through the powerful medium of metal arts."
IAMA's mission is to provide a supportive and collaborative studio space that fosters confidence and belief in one's abilities and identity. "We aim to provide a supportive and collaborative studio space that fosters confidence and the belief in one's abilities and identities," said Hall.
The organization's impact is evident through testimonials from past participants. Megaen Curl, an 18-year-old student, shared, "When I met Carla, she showed me the importance of being a professional boss lady and being on time for work. With great patience, she showed me how to stick weld and blacksmith in her all-woman classes. Carla has become a great role model/friend in my life still to this day."
The IAMA team is a diverse group of passionate and dedicated artists, teachers, creative thinkers, and social justice advocates working towards a common goal. Alongside Carla Hall, the team includes Dani Sanchez (she/they), Studio Assistant & Teacher Assistant, who brings a unique perspective and love for metal as a medium for self-expression; Jhyle Rinker (she/her), Curator, who aims to make art accessible and open to every person; and Megan Bates (she/her), Writing and Development, an arts writer, fundraiser, and advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth.
IAMA's dedicated board members, including Kristy Higares (President and Treasurer), David Clifford (Secretary), Jess Knight, and CJ Mace, bring a wealth of experience and passion to the organization. The board is composed of educators, artists, and advocates who are committed to fostering equity, creativity, and social justice through the industrial arts.
For more information about Industrial Arts Mentorship for All, its programs, and the Queer Youth Workshops, please visit the IAMA website.
About Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA)
Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA) is a Minneapolis-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing accessible industrial arts training programs for underrepresented youth in the Twin Cities. Through workshops, internships, and community partnerships, IAMA fosters confidence, skill-building, and creative expression in a supportive, inclusive environment.
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For more information about Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA), contact the company here:
Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA)
Carla Hall
(510) 847-1735
carla@iamayouth.org
Industrial Arts Mentorship for All
4430 N Lyndale Ave,
Minneapolis, MN 55412
