By: Briana Polanco | Publish Date: September 18, 2026
In July, Kean University wrapped up its final session for its CREATE Summer Program– a two-session pre-college program at Liberty Hall for students from twelve to eighteen years old pursuing art at such a pivotal point in their careers.
The CREATE – Cultivating Reflection, Expression, and Artistic Transformation in Education program theme for this summer’s cohort was Your Art, Your Voice.
This cohort had learned new techniques to incorporate into their art and final exhibitions. These techniques ranged from sketching and watercolors to environmental art and more.
One of these classes, the watercolor class, was taught by a specialized painter, Victoria Russo.
Russo has been teaching the watercolor class segment of this program for the last two years as an art educator, collaborating with teens and kids.
As a collaborative member in the 2026 CREATE Program as an art instructor, Russo discussed her role as part of this cohort and her highlights from it.
“The program ran from July 6 (week one) to July 16 (week two). ” Russo said, “My role in the program was as an art educator. I taught watercolor for two weeks. I introduced projects that helped build their confidence in watercolor layering, color mixing, and line work! ”
When asked how her experience so far at CREATE has been, Russo gave her students’ work a glowing review.
“I was very proud of the work they created and the thought and creativity they put into making the projects their own.” Russo adds, “I enjoyed working with each student and learning about their interests and what type of art they enjoy creating.”
Even as the session came to an end, Russo reiterates how proud the group has made her, especially with their final gallery presentation.
“My favorite part of the program was the final day where the students exhibited their artwork they created in each class!” Russo said, “I was so happy to see how proud the students were of not only their work, but their new friends’ work as well!
In addition to the new techniques learned, the program introduced the cohort to the Special Collections & Research Library at Kean University (SCRLA).
The SCRLA gave the cohort access to available resources, igniting new inspiration for their work and gallery pieces. It focused on identifying and connecting art to storytelling and history and also gave them a glimpse at works of art from different points in history and eras.
Each student was introduced to a new medium – from watercolors to sketches–by combining their creativity with mental health awareness.
These forms of mental health awareness ranged from journaling to outdoor activities. The program has been very big on environmental and mental health aspects, using environmental art and sustainability.
The program granted them certifications and new educational opportunities in art at Kean University, culminating in a Closing Reception on July 16, 2026 at Liberty Hall to celebrate the young artists and their newfound impact on art within mental health. The reception gave a guided gallery tour alongside program highlight videos.
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