About PlatteForum
We are an award-winning arts organization supporting youth and artists to collaborate and create work about issues that matter most to them. We connect youth and artists with resources, career and development opportunities, and a safe space to belong, learn, and grow.
— What we Stand for —
Mission.
Using the Arts as a Bridge PlatteForum connects youth and artists with resources to reach their full potential.
At PlatteForum, youth and professional artists collaborate on long-term, intensive projects, where they explore a wide array of social issues together and take creative risks in a safe and inclusive environment - all backed by wrap-around resources and economic support.
In the process, participants develop academic, professional, social-emotional, and leadership skills that stay with them forever.
Vision.
We envision a world where youth, artists, and communities have no boundaries to success.
PlatteForum typically serves close to 25 artists and more than 350 youth each year. Since 2002, we have welcomed artists from 5 continents, 15 countries and 28 states.
Our ArtLab program boasts an average on-time graduation rate of 98% for ArtLab Youth Interns, significantly higher than state and local district graduation rates. 73% of ArtLab Interns attend Title 1 schools, 40% are first generation, and over 80% are low-income.
Every year, PlatteForum serves over 2,000 youth, families, artists, community members and the general public through our core programs. Our exhibitions and events are offered free and open to the public.
Values.
Creative Expression, Collaboration, Inclusivity, & Community.
Creative expression - We are an inspiring and uncensored space that ignites artistic exploration and self-awareness.
Collaboration - We push boundaries and create partnerships to amplify our impact.
Inclusivity - We celebrate and value diverse perspectives and believe in equity for all voices.
Community - We foster provocative conversations and action on social issues that are important to our community.
"This organization is actually doing the work of supporting artists, and growing a new generation of powerful young artists and activists."
Kenzie, former Resident Artist
— Our History —
A Little Bit of Background
PlatteForum was founded in 2002 by professional artist and design professor Judy Anderson, alongside Mark Smith of East West Partners. Together, they set out to address two key gaps they saw in Denver: limited opportunities for professional artists, and a lack of accessible arts programming for under-resourced youth. Initially located on the Platte River in Riverfront Park, we were established to be a forum for youth and artists' voices. Though we have moved locations within Denver, this ethos remains.
From the beginning, we have focused on creating a safe space for self-expression, experiential learning, and meaningful connection. Through our programs, we support artists and youth to collaborate on real-world projects. These collaborations often culminate in professional exhibitions, showcasing the powerful work created together.
In our 20+ years, our organization has been honored with numerous awards recognizing our impact, including: The Mayor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts (2008), National Endowment for the Arts Youth Program Award (2011), and Best Youth Arts Program by Denver Westword (2023).
“To me this is a space where a bunch of creative people can get together, feel welcomed, and actually develop the skills to be an artist and be successful.”
Owen, current ArtLab Intern
ArtLab
— Our Programs —
PlatteForum’s flagship program, ArtLab, is a year-round paid internship for underresourced and low-income high school youth that integrates art and activism with social-emotional support, as well as academic and professional skills development.
ArtLab Interns spend more than 300 hours each year creating work related to issues they care most about, building strong relationships with PlatteForum staff, Resident Artists, and peers, leading their own supported initiatives, and setting goals for the future, working toward them incrementally, and celebrating successes along the way.
Artist Residency
PlatteForum’s Artist Residency is a competitive and international residency that takes place over a period of 8 weeks. Our Artist Residency provides established artists with the time, space, and support they need to create a new body of work which inspires and connects communities.
Resident Artists are given full access to PlatteForum’s studio space to use over the course of their residency. They also lead weekly workshops with ArtLab Youth Interns, culminating in a collaborative exhibition.