Mike Wyatt isn’t only passionate about his art. He also passionate about the future of his city.
“We, the public, are responsible for saving the city,” says Mike, a fused glass artist at Third Degree. “To save the city, we need to show people that there are things that they can be part of and that there are people who want to help them see what is out there.”
Fellow fused glass artist Doretha Washington agreed, and knew how to turn Mike’s passion into action. She made contact with Gundia Locke-Clay, Art Director for Neighborhood Houses, and set up multiple days throughout July to introduce their young clients to the world of glass art in the studio at Third Degree. “Hopefully, their experiences creating glass projects will enhance and encourage a lifelong appreciation of art in general,” says Doretha.
Doretha and Mike generously donated their time, supplies and resources in this collaborative effort. Students have worked throughout the month making fused glass jewelry, wind chimes, sun catchers, and more. More than 30 children and teens will be taking home unique glass projects that they made and can display in their homes or give as gifts. This week concludes the collaboration between Third Degree and Neighborhood Houses.
Neighborhood Houses is a United Way charitable non-profit whose mission is to “inspire children and families to reach their magnificent potential through transformative, educational and empowering experiences anchored in faith, hope and love.”
See more photos of the kids at work in our studios: