Community-Based Arts Education & Sustainable Partnerships

Publication Date

Spring 4-22-2026

Presentation Length

Poster/Gallery presentation

College

College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences

Department

Honors Program

Student Level

Undergraduate

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Amanda Nelms

Presentation Type

Poster

Summary

Community-Based Arts Education & Sustainable Partnerships: Working with Little Art House Nashville

This project explores the role of community-based partnerships in expanding equitable access to arts education through collaboration with Little Art House Nashville. Founded by public school educators Emma Bradford and Leighton Bryant, the organization responds to the increasing lack of accessible, high-quality arts programming for children by prioritizing small, personalized classes led by qualified instructors. As Little Art House has grown, its leadership has identified a critical need to extend its reach to under-resourced communities while preserving the integrity of its teaching model.

This research and applied project focuses on developing a sustainable network of instructors, teaching assistants, and community partners to support long-term program expansion. By fostering connections with students and educators at Belmont University, Lipscomb University, and Vanderbilt University, as well as collaborating with local child-focused nonprofit organizations, the project aims to create a consistent pipeline of engaged educators and institutional partnerships.

Ultimately, this initiative demonstrates how strategic collaboration can sustain community-based arts education while advancing broader goals of equity, accessibility, and creative development. The resulting network will provide a foundation for ongoing programming, including classes, workshops, and outreach initiatives, contributing to a more inclusive arts landscape in Nashville.

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