With support from the California Arts Council, Studio Channel Islands will deliver an education program in collaboration with an artist residency and exhibition program. The education program will enabling students from target schools to work alongside professional artists in the creation of an exhibition and performance program. Studio Channel Islands has secured access and funding for an artist residency at Rancho Santa Clara del Norte, Saticoy, exploring the rich ecological and social history of one of the county’s original Mexican land grant ranches. The education program will provide access to this creative process for students from low-income communities with particular focus upon students from indigenous, chicano and migrant families.
Studio Channel Islands was formed within the footprint of California State University Channel Islands. The artists presented exhibitions and delivered education programs. The organization moved from the University to a downtown derelict school and set up studios and a Gallery; the education programs continued with a broad range of classes and regular camps. The link with the University was not lost; the University’s community lecture program continues to be delivered within the Gallery and Studio Channel Islands recognizes the achievement of students through an annual Award for Excellence.
Studio Channel Islands has continued to evolve new education programs involving both formal and informal education partners. Now based within a school district campus the organization is able to work closely with both elementary and high schools within the community.

