As an artist, drive is one of the most important aspects of creation.  Let me actually start by defining what I think drive is so that we’re all on the same page here.  Drive, to me, is a hunger; it’s that need to communicate through your art because that is the only way that you can communicate.  It’s what makes you want to create.  Drive is what separates reg

Have you ever asked yourself one humble, but complex, question: Does art have a purpose?  When staring at the confluence of colors in a painting or the feeling of catharsis elicited by the actors’ performances on stage, have you asked yourself: What is the source for all this motivation?

For the first time ever, this year’s YoungArts winners from across the state of Florida and alumna Yara Travieso, 2005 Winner in Dance, shared the stage for the YoungArts Florida Celebration 2011. By watching two generations of alumni perform, the audience discovered how collaboration can offer an artist the opportunity to step out of his comfort zone and strengthen and expand his artistic craft.

Last Sunday, May 15, YoungArts’ newest class of alumni partnered with other alums to create the YoungArts Florida Celebration, which was presented at the New World Center in Miami Beach, FL.
 

For the first time ever, this year’s YoungArts winners from across the state of Florida and alumna Yara Travieso, 2005 Winner in Dance, will be sharing the stage to bring you YoungArts Florida Celebration 2011-- a FREE public performance which will showcase how collaboration across disciplines can strengthen an artist’s work.

Drive may be one of the most important assets an artist needs, especially in today’s world. As I sit here typing this blog, I am in the midst of promoting an album, booking a summer tour, and trying to do whatever I can to take my music career to the next level.

YoungArts celebrated our annual In the Studio/Out of the Studio this past April. The event was held April 9-16, 2011 in locations around New York City, including the Baryshnikov Arts Center, Affirmation Arts Gallery, El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice School in Brooklyn, Frank Sinatra School for the Arts in Queens and Rebel Diaz Collective in the Bronx.

As a young kid, I grew up thinking I was going to become the next Michael Jordan, idolizing his mastery of the game of basketball. Never in my early youth was I so inspired by someone’s dedication to his craft; a principal that I strive to remain cognizant of every day.

In a world plagued with problems day in, day out, we need agents to hope against hope. And there are no better candidates than artists. They give us reasons to overcome the pessimism and despair we sometimes experience. But why do they do what they do? Celebrities choose to be celebrities and the world of fame and glamour; artists strive to maintain their integrity and passion.