Winchendon Youth
Creative Space 4 Arts 

 

​​At Murdock Middle School — and More to Come

Nurturing Creativity. Building Confidence. Inspiring the Future.

Creative Space 4 Arts is a youth-led creative initiative designed to provide students in grades 3–8 with a safe, expressive, and enriching space to explore the arts. Launched in Fall 2024 in response to school budget cuts and limited extracurricular offerings, the program empowers young artists to create, collaborate, and grow—artistically, socially, and personally.

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Program Overview

Creative Space 4 Arts operates as an after-school arts club at Murdock Middle School, meeting every Thursday from 3:00–4:30 PM. The club offers a welcoming environment where students are encouraged to explore creativity, take risks, and discover their unique voices through artistic expression.

The program’s core mission is to nurture creativity while providing meaningful opportunities for students to develop confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging.

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What We Do

Throughout the school year, students meet weekly to explore a wide range of artistic disciplines through hands-on learning and experimentation. Activities include:

• Drawing, sketching, and doodling

• Painting and mixed media

• Paper making and paper mâché

• Clay work and pottery, including use of a wheel

• Transforming drawings into beaded wall hangings

• Creative writing, poetry, and illustrated books

From the very beginning, students take the lead—identifying their interests, planning projects, and making creative decisions together. This youth-centered approach fosters ownership, pride, and deeper engagement in the learning process.

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More Than Art

Creative Space 4 Arts is about more than producing artwork. It is a space that supports:

• Emotional and social development

• Leadership and teamwork

• Building self-worth through creative expression

• Discovering new talents and interests

Some students are drawn to the club for its calm, supportive atmosphere—sitting with a sketch pad, talking with peers, and feeling recognized, understood, and supported. Through shared projects and collaboration, students form meaningful relationships and cultivate a strong sense of belonging.

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A Supportive & Collaborative Environment

The program fosters creativity in a nurturing, collaborative setting where students learn alongside one another. Encouragement, peer support, and mutual respect are central to the experience, helping young people grow both artistically and personally.

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Community-Based Projects

Looking ahead, students will work together on community-based projects that apply their artistic skills to make a positive impact within the Winchendon community. These projects allow students to use creativity in real-world contexts while strengthening purpose, confidence, and civic connection.

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A Community Effort

This program was made possible thanks to generous grants and support from:

• The HEAL Collaborative

• Winchendon Community Heart & Soul

• Winchendon Cultural Council

• Murdock Middle School
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What’s Next

With strong participation and growing community enthusiasm, Creative Space 4 Arts is committed to sustaining and expanding the program. Plans include pursuing additional cultural grants, youth-led fundraising opportunities, and new partnerships to ensure this creative space continues for years to come.

The program is also finalizing its Youth Drama Program, scheduled to launch in March 2026, further expanding creative opportunities for local youth.

“By giving young people the opportunity to be the best versions of themselves, we invest in the future of Winchendon.”

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Get Involved

Want to support the program or learn more?

Contact:
Jennifer Townsend - Jennifer@creativespace4arts.org