Lowville, NY — March 31, 2026
Youth of Lewis County (YOLC), in partnership with the Tug Hill Artist Network (THAN), has received dual grants as part of the Statewide Community Regrants program. The awards support a free, intensive summer arts camp for rural youth ages 12–17 and a community concert and youth workshop featuring the Celtic fusion act Femme Celtique.
Together, these initiatives expand access to high‑quality arts experiences and strengthen YOLC’s nationally rare, youth‑governed model of leadership, service, and creative empowerment.
The educational grant funds a multidisciplinary, Renaissance‑themed summer arts camp running July through September, which removes financial barriers and offers hands‑on instruction in character, costume design, dance, theatrical movement, and improvisational acting. Youth will participate in twice‑weekly sessions led by professional teaching artists Tanya Roy, Jim Goodenberry, Travis Widrick, and Kelley Martin. Four curriculum modules—costume/character design, Renaissance song and dance, theatrical combat, and improvisation—culminate in a student‑designed performance at the Lewis County Renaissance Faire.
“This grant allows us to offer an equalizing, empowering space where young people can explore identity, build confidence, and experience the joy of creative expression,” said Wyatt Wagner, Executive Director of YOLC. “Rural youth deserve access to the same rich artistic opportunities found in larger communities.”
The second grant supports the Femme Celtique Performance & Educational Initiative, featuring the high‑energy, female‑led Celtic fusion duo known for blending traditional bagpipes and bodhrán with modern rock and pop. A youth workshop will be held at 4 PM on Sunday, September 13, followed by a free community concert at 5 PM.
“Femme Celtique’s energy and relatability make them the perfect artists to inspire our community,” Wagner said.
Both projects highlight the collaboration between YOLC and the Tug Hill Artist Network, combining youth leadership with regional arts networks to build a vibrant creative ecosystem for the Tug Hill region.
Youth of Lewis County nurtures the well‑being of youth and young adults through peer support, mentorship, and community connection.
“This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program of the New York State Council on the Arts, with support from the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, and administered by the St. Lawrence County Arts Council.”
