The Orange County Arts Commission and Orange County Arts Alliance are excited to announce a new free program for LGBTQ tweens at the Eno Arts Mill, beginning in February 2025. Led and created by art therapist Natalia Torres del Valle, the LGBTQ Tween Arts Collective is a safe and creative space for LGBTQIA+ identifying tweens (ages 9-12) to gather in community and explore self-expression through the arts.
“Come as you are! This open studio invites LGBTQIA+ tweens to explore their creativity, build community, and let their imaginations shine,” states Torres del Valle.
A grant from Anita Mills and Andrea Selch made to the Orange County Arts Alliance, the nonprofit partner of the Orange County Arts Commission (OCAC), has made the program free for participating students.
“All young people need, and deserve, safe spaces in which to express their authentic identities—especially those whose life experiences include gender differences and/or neurodiversity. We want to assist in providing such a place within The Eno Arts Mill, an accepting, supportive, and creative community,” state Mills and Selch.
OCAC director Katie Murray feels “this is one of the most important, life-changing programs we offer at the Eno Arts Mill, and I’m so thankful for Natalia’s vision and Anita and Andrea’s support in making this opportunity possible.”
Tweens can enjoy the process of creating in any form they feel connected to- visual, music, writing, movement, or drama. Basic art materials are provided, and participants are encouraged to bring their favorite supplies to further personalize their creative experience. This group is all about connecting, sharing, and creating together in a supportive environment.
All local LGBTQ tweens (ages 9-12) are invited to participate. The group meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month from 5-6pm at the Eno Arts Mill in Hillsborough. Interested students can register by visiting www.littlehouseartstherapy.com. For questions, contact Natalia at contact@nataliatorresdelvalle.com.
