Meet a Free Arts Mentor: Danielle Pugliese
November 10, 2021, Katie Huynh
Our Free Arts program leverages the power of mentoring by providing children with a safe place for artistic expression and self-discovery. This program is possible thanks to the amazing volunteers who engage youth in arts projects at our Twin Cities partner sites. We asked one of our volunteers, Danielle Pugliese, to share her experiences with Free Arts and explain why art is important in youth mentoring work.
Please tell us about yourself!
Hi, I’m Danielle Pugliese! I’ve always been passionate about art and knew from a young age that I wanted to work in fashion. I graduated with a bachelor of science in fashion design, and now have been designing exclusively kids clothing for 13 years, of my nearly 18 years at Target.
What motivated you to become a Free Arts mentor?
My friend Ann was a Big Sister, so I knew I wanted to be involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. When I learned there was a program specific to arts, I thought, “Wow, this is a natural fit considering my love for art and the level of commitment.” I believe art is an outlet, an extension of play. I love that connection with relaxation, expression, and processing of emotions.
What impact does Free Arts have on the youth participants?
I see Free Arts giving exposure to potential careers in arts. As a volunteer, I want to encourage a lifelong interest in arts, not just as a hobby or something you grow out of as a kid. I want to show kids that art is an integral part of our communities, and it can be very impactful.
How do you benefit as a Free Arts volunteer? What makes you keep doing it?
Art is a space where everyone can freely express themselves and live in the moment. It’s so rewarding for me to see kids free from the worry that they’re doing something wrong. I feed off their energy and joy, and it makes me keep coming back!
Why is artistic expression important in youth mentoring work?
When we talk about mentoring, we often think of tutoring in technical fields like math or science. I think artistic expression is just as important to nurture in youth because it’s so important for kids to feel free to experiment and not worry about the outcome, to feel they can color outside the lines. Art is challenging in its own sense because you’re never wrong but you’re never right either, and I think that’s the beauty of it.
Any advice for people who want to become a Free Arts mentor?
Just do it. You don’t need to have an art background. You don’t need to be a great artist. You just need to have an interest in art and kids. You just appreciate the process because you learn it’s about progress and fun, not perfection.
Interested in becoming a volunteer with Free Arts? Get started at our Free Arts page.
