The Artists Collective

The Artists Collective — Jackie McLean's Legacy Arts Training Since 1970

Founded by renowned saxophonist Jackie McLean, the Artists Collective on Albany Ave provides year-round professional training in dance, theater, music, and visual arts to 1,000+ students annually. Visual arts programs emphasize the African diaspora.

Artists Collective Visual Arts Programs

Classes for children, teens, and adults. Options include:
- Saturday School visual arts
- After-school programs (Hartford Public Schools partnership)
- Summer Rite of Passage programs
- Painting, drawing, and mixed media
- Exposure to African and Caribbean arts traditions

What's Included

• Professional working-artist instructors
• Focus on African diaspora art forms
• Scholarships for Hartford youth
• Year-round schedule

Experience

One of Hartford's most important youth arts institutions. Best for families interested in connecting children to arts traditions from across the African diaspora. Strong cultural grounding with high instructional quality.