OPEN MIC, OPEN TO ALL. CollECtive Arts's program The Jam has hosted poetry and musical talents throughout this season so far, and its open mics are open to everyone. (Photo via Unsplash)

With the inspiring message to encourage openness, centeredness, and the ambition to grow creatively, CollECtive Arts, Inc. invites teenagers to bring their talents to their doorstep. Swinging in tune with their program called, “The Jam,” CollECtive Arts aims to teach how the arts can heal, connect, and inspire others.

“The open mics are warm, judgement free, and supportive,” Michael Rambo, director of CollECtive Arts, said. “We really enjoy having a teen-focused event to produce a peer-to-peer environment which provides encouragement, visions, and an open forum to share ideas that are on teenager’s minds.”

CollECtive Arts is a Christian-based space that connects their mission to reflect the love of Jesus through artistic expression. With programs running currently including the CollECtive Choir, Might in Motion dance groups, The Jam teen music sessions, and The Table family theatre, the organization has become a pillar in supporting musical interest in the Valley with the hopes to open more programs in the near future.

The Jam has hosted poetry and musical talents throughout winter so far. “We help students re-discover community in a creative environment, and help them discover their purpose as we gear for serving others through the arts,” Rambo said.

Adults are welcome to accompany, but the performances themselves are focused on the skills of the teenagers. “We are pretty open to whatever gifts and projects the teens want to show,” he said. “Music is for everyone.”

Preparing for a Chippewa Valley-wide teenage talent contest this fall, CollECtive Arts encourages teens to step outside of their comfort zones and to step up behind a mic!

Learn more about their programs, services, volunteer forms, or upcoming events at https://www.collectiveartsec.org.