Artscape

Escape Artist

One artist in Seattle, Washington offers at-risk youth a creative outlet and a chance to be heard.

Filmmaker: Ethan Steinman

For US teens caught up in the state welfare system there are few opportunities to express what they want and how they see their future. But one artist takes the time to listen.

Geoffrey Garza works with a group of at-risk youth at a residential facility in Seattle, Washington. Aged from 12 to 17, the youngsters who attend the Arts Corps programme at the Spruce Street Crisis Center are often overwhelmed by the tragedy of their own stories.

During one class, we meet with some of Geoffrey’s students and hear their stories as they talk about their experiences, fears and hopes.