The Wisconsin 4-H State Arts Teams are excited to announce a rebranding initiative that will see the creation of the 4-H Arts Ambassadors. This new structure aims to provide enhanced opportunities for young leaders in the arts, fostering growth and collaboration across the state.
The rebranding will encompass the Drama Company, the Visual Arts Team, and the newly rebooted COMM Team (Communication, Media and Marketing), all of which will now operate under the unified banner of Arts Ambassadors. This change is designed to facilitate common Positive Youth Development (PYD) programming, strengthen connections among state team participants, and provide a structured framework for arts leadership throughout the 4-H year, both at the county and statewide levels.
Application and Team Structure
When applying for the Arts Ambassador Team, youth will select their area of focus: Art Team, Drama Company (Performance), COMM Team, or Drama Company (Technical). While the teams will continue to function as they always have, with dedicated time for creating and promoting the arts in their specific disciplines, they will also collaborate on broader arts events and initiatives.
Any active 4-H member in grades 9-13, with a passion for the Arts, is eligible to apply to be a 4-H Arts Ambassador. Applications will be open November 15-December 20 in 4HOnline.
Collaborative Opportunities
Arts Ambassadors will support a variety of arts events beyond their current roles, including Arts Camp, Art Beat, Fall Forum, State Fair, and other events that could benefit from their involvement, such as Tech Farm Days, Arts Auctions, and local fairs. Youth will have the flexibility to build personal schedules and will not be expected to participate in all events. Over the next few years, the team will work together to define the specifics of these roles.
Local and Statewide Engagement
In addition to statewide events like Arts Camp, Art Beat, and Fall Forum, Arts Ambassadors will be encouraged to support local arts activities, such as Music and Drama Festivals, and County Arts Committees. This involvement will allow youth to practice and develop their skills while supporting county-level arts programming.
Recognition and Development
The 4-H Arts Ambassadors will have the opportunity to earn special recognition through their participation in statewide and county events. Youth and adults will collaborate to create a structure that encourages ongoing participation in the Expressive Arts and recognizes leadership and effort. This initiative aims to extend the impact of state team members, supporting county educators and fostering long-term growth for youth participants.
Regional Arts Engagement
Ambassadors will also have the chance to participate in regional arts events, helping them build their passions, develop a sense of belonging, and cultivate lifelong art appreciation. Potential activities include group trips to professional symphonies, dance performances, theater productions, art installations, museums, gardens, architectural tours, storytelling events, and more.
Looking Ahead
While it will take time to implement all aspects of the Statewide Arts Ambassador program, the vision is clear: to maintain the best elements of the current State Arts Teams structure while expanding opportunities for service and growth. This rebranding effort promises to benefit county programs, youth participants, and statewide programming alike.
For more information or to share ideas, please reach out as we work together to make the best even better. Contact Jay Johnson with questions at johnson274@wisc.edu.
This rebranding marks an exciting new chapter for the Wisconsin 4-H State Arts Teams, promising enriched experiences and greater opportunities for young artists across the state.
