News
Show News Category FiltersWild & Freeeeeeeeeeee!
May 31, 2022
Thank You! Friends, we can’t thank you enough for being part of our return to center stage last night. You were an amazing audience and we’re thrilled that you were with us. Special thanks…
Mental Health Matters
May 9, 2022
In just a few weeks we’ll present our 28th annual performance — a joy-filled, inspiring celebration of creative expression — and we’re all so excited to be back on the big stage! It’s fitting…
Cohannet Academy youth with Guest Artist Cammie Griffin Tokunbo (STOMP)
April 26, 2022
The Cohannet youth and staff are preparing to get the audience up on their feet and lead us in a dance for our LIVE performance Wild & Free on Thursday, May 26th . STOMP…
ExYo Mentors Rock!
April 20, 2022
Express Yourself’s peer mentors have been hard at work this year expanding their leadership skills, developing unique artistic projects, and assisting studio artists and their peers in the creative process. Returning mentors Haley, Christian…
Peace Posts
April 14, 2022
ExYo youth have finished painting their clay tiles and the Peace Posts are being assembled. Carefully placing each tile, Exyo artist Laraine Cicchetti has adhered them to the wooden structures. Tucked in the center…
ExYo Youth Shine with the Stars
April 6, 2022
Special guest artists, Ricky Duran joined the youth last night rehearsing songs with them for the upcoming Wild & Free production. Carlos Thomas, Quincy Giles and Boston’s Best Musicians joined the core group of…
ExYo Visits Each/Other Exhibit at the PEM
April 1, 2022
Exyo students were enthralled with the Each/Other: Marie Watt and Cannupa Hanska Luger, Indigenous artists, multi layered exhibition. Collaboration and process art aligns with our focus in the Express Yourself studio. Watt and Luger use creativity…
Lesley Interns Immersed in the ExYo Creative Process
March 28, 2022
Interns from Lesley University– Mollie Lesnever and Jessica Wilson joined us in the studio this year. EXYO has partnered with Lesley University to provide internship opportunities for their students for over ten years. Mollie…
STOMP into Spring
March 21, 2022
Our annual performance is just around the corner and Exyo youth have begun preparing for the Wang Theatre stage after two years of virtual performance. Springtime means the studio is alive with budding creativity….
Be Photogenic with Photographer Bobbie Bush
March 10, 2022
Express Yourself is thrilled to have long- term collaborator, photographer Bobbie Bush in studio again this year! Each year her photographs are the highlight of our annual performance. Exyo youth had lots of fun stepping…
Joy shines like the sun with Guest Artist Wes Bruce
March 2, 2022
We are very excited to welcome returning Guest Artist Wes Bruce to the studio this week. Exyo youth let their joy shine like the sun. Wes led the group in a magical meditation, guiding them…
Celebrating Black History
February 17, 2022
This month, and throughout the year, we celebrate Black History and the endless contributions African Americans have made in the arts. We’re highlighting some of our favorite youth created artworks inspired by influential African…
May your love be WILD & FREE
February 14, 2022
Happy Valentine’s Day! Thanks for all YOU do to support Express Yourself and provide Pure Kid Joy! We’ve got the perfect way for you to show your love to the special people in your…
Special Guest Actor Quincy Giles joins the ExYo Studio
February 8, 2022
We are excited to welcome special guest actor, Quincy Giles, to the Express Yourself studio. Quincy joined community youth participating in acting and rhythm workshops, as well as other ongoing projects that lead to…
All Lines Lead to WILD & FREE
January 31, 2022
ExYo youth and teens recreated larger-than-life wall drawings inspired by artist Sol LeWitt. A key founder of Minimalism and Conceptual Art, LeWitt focused on the process of art rather than just the final product….
Studio Bee is Buzzing with Activity
January 19, 2022
Studio Bee continues to provide us with flexible creative options for programming thanks to the generosity of CF Adams Charitable Trust! Featuring a colorful mural, a music room and mirrors to support our dance creations, Studio Bee allows…
We continue on….!
January 10, 2022
Setting their intentions for peace as the inspiration and foundation of their individually made clay tiles, youth continue bringing their peace visions to life by painting vibrant color they have created. Once all tiles have…
Looking Forward To A Wild & Free New Year
January 3, 2022
In 2021 youth continued to connect, engage, and create with outdoor, virtual and in studio experiences throughout these challenging times. Thanks to our community of friends and supporters, it’s been an amazing year at…
Joy to You this Holiday Season!
December 20, 2021
We have welcomed youth back into our newly expanded studio this fall and we hope that it continues right through the year to our live performance in May! Special thanks to our supportive, engaged community as we look ahead to the New Year. With…
Giving Tuesday Messages of Hope and Peace
November 30, 2021
It’s Giving Tuesday and we invite YOU to help us make our vision a reality! Picture this: A wooden post, about four feet tall, on a rolling base. On each of the four sides…
We Remember
November 19, 2021
Express Yourself mourns the loss of two recent students from North Shore Recovery High School who were creative participants in our program during the pandemic both in outdoor settings and in studio workshops. “We really are grateful to work with…
Exyo Youth Filled with Wonder at the Peabody Essex Museum
November 11, 2021
Exyo community youth and students from Centerville School had so much fun exploring ‘Where the Questions Live: An Exploration of Humans in Nature’ created by artist Wes Bruce at the Peabody Essex Museum. Finding keys, secrets and passages throughout this…
Deepening Connections Through Clay
October 25, 2021
Express Yourself youth continue with arts immersion exploring different mediums. Artist Laraine Cicchetti, sculptor and potter introduced clay to each group, tasking them to create unique Clay-Nations. Focusing on collaboration and connection while…
Exyo Students Dazzled by George Sherwood Kinetic Sculptures
October 19, 2021
Exyo staff and Students from North Shore Recovery High School visited the George Sherwood Studio in Ipswich, MA. World renown American Sculptor, George Sherwood creates kinetic sculptures made of stainless steel that respond to the environment…
Exyo Energy and Excitement in the Studio
October 14, 2021
After a year of virtual programming, the studio is alive with the youth’s energy and excitement. September groups got rolling with youth participating in team building games, music, acting, singing, movement, and visual arts with our…
Exyo Youth dive into artistic connections at the Peabody Essex Museum
October 5, 2021
Exyo youth were hosted by the Ipswich RiverWatershed Association. Following our Ipswich river experience, Exyo youth will dive into making artistic connections at the Peabody Essex Museum through our continued ArtLink partnership. Students from…
Express Yourself Honored with Inspiring Business Award – Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce
September 28, 2021
Express Yourself celebrates the Inspiring Business Award along with Board Member and Friend Karen Nascembeni winner of the Frates Family Luminary Award. ExYo Co-Director Stan Strickland on saxophone and Master Drummer Joh Camara, drummed up…
Building Community
September 22, 2021
Exyo youth had an exciting first day of programming and working in Studio Bee for their very first time. They were busy little bees creating artist trading cards as they connected with both old and new friends. Earlier…
Welcome Back ExYo Youth!
September 20, 2021
Express Yourself staff are thrilled to welcome youth back to our fee free studio programs after our virtual programming that kept us all together last year. Our team has been working hard to prepare…
Express Yourself wins Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce Inspiring Business Award
September 14, 2021
Our non-profit organization, Express Yourself, has won the GBCC Inspiring Business Award for our work during the lockdown with youth and families. From March 2020 through 2021, we pivoted from our on-site studio model to create an…
Celebrating Kristi’s 20 incredible, hardworking years with Express Yourself
September 8, 2021
Express Yourself is honored to have Kristi Jeffers working with us for over 20 years. She has influenced the model and been part of the growth from its origins at a home office to a 7,000 square…
Art and Nature come together on the Ipswich River
August 31, 2021
We are excited to welcome kids back to Express Yourself this fall. ExYo staff are busy brainstorming art inspired activities for the upcoming year. We are looking forward to a special partnership with The Ipswich River…
ExYo Mentor & Chef Christian takes his creativity to the kitchen
August 12, 2021
ExYo Mentor/Chef Christian is taking his creativity to the kitchen in this summer cooking series. 👨🍳🎉 ExYo Mentors program encourages youth leaders to share their unique talents within our community, so roll up your…
What will be the theme for our 28th Annual Performance?
August 4, 2021
Each year, young people and artists at Express Yourself collaborate on a theme that will be the driving creative force leading to our grand performance in May. To us, the theme captures the essence of what we…
ExYo Says Goodbye to a Very Special Friend 🐾
July 26, 2021
Charlie was our studio therapy dog, both an emotional support and friend to all at Express Yourself. With great pleasure and a wagging tale, he welcomed kids that may have been hesitant to come into the studio for the first…
Cummings Foundation Make a Difference Dollars awarded to ExYo
July 22, 2021
We received a wonderful surprise this morning from the Cummings Foundation– a gift of $20,000 Make a Difference Dollars donation supporting our adjacent new Studio Bee! Cummings Site Visit Committee Volunteers Cam Brown of King Fish and Albert Lanzillottii, II CPA, nominated our organization for this…
Summertime in the Studio
July 15, 2021
Express Yourself’s summer 1:1 Come Together pilot program kicked-off this week, welcoming back youth to the studio after a year of virtual learning. Many new youths joined ExYo during the pandemic and this was…
ExYo Mentor accepted to Simmons University
June 24, 2021
We extend a huge congratulations to longtime Express Yourself participant & mentor Brylee Guilmet on being accepted into Simmons University for Library Sciences. Brylee has been an integral part of the Express Yourself family…
ExYo Youth Emerge with Resilience
June 16, 2021
This week we wrap up youth programming for the 2020-2021, after a full year of a challenging pandemic. We are incredibly proud of our youth for all they have accomplished in this past year…
IMAGINE NATION Outdoor Drive In Theater Performance at the North Shore Music Theater
June 7, 2021
What a show! We want to extend a giant THANK YOU to everyone involved in making this creative outdoor performance a night to remember! This on demand performance will be hosted on our website…
It’s almost showtime!
May 19, 2021
We’re super excited to share our culminating virtual performance. Watch this creative collaboration featuring our amazing EXYO youth, staff, and special guest artists. Each participant has contributed in some way to this truly unique celebration of joy and resilience. Featured works created…
Ghost Light Series at the Boch Center Wang Theatre with Special Guest Ricky Duran
May 13, 2021
For 26 years our annual performance has taken place at the Boch Center-Wang Theatre in Boston. Youth from the Department of Mental Health, as well as participating youth within the community, are joined by…
Mental Health Matters
May 4, 2021
In this difficult year, our collective anxiety and uncertainty are challenging issues. Our connections with youth remain a constant reminder of how important consistency of relationship matters. Many youth we serve struggle with isolation and mental health issues. Our creative and engaging…
Welcome back Wes Bruce
April 29, 2021
The Express Yourself studio is a whimsical world of color as we welcomed back guest visual artist Wes Bruce. Continuing with set design from this past year, Wes, Exyo youth and staff have all…
The Cohannet Girls get their groove on
April 21, 2021
On a perfect sunny 70-degree day the Cohannet Girls sprung outside to get their groove on for our annual performance on May 20, 2021. Exyo Intern Massy and Guest Artist Cammie from STOMP have…
Mighty Mini Makers of Centerville School
April 12, 2021
The mighty mini makers of Centerville School have been working hard to create a one of kind piece for our annual performance this year. Using a variety of tools these little builders are crossing…
Music In The Air
April 5, 2021
Exyo youth entered the studio (by appointment only!) to sing with Co-Director Stan Strickland, preparing for our virtual performance 7:30 pm on May 20, 2021. This year we are most fortunate to have Ricky…
Looking through the lens of the EXYO Mentors
March 31, 2021
While spending a lot of time inside our home this past year, we think we know just about every nook and cranny. Inspired by photographer Yorch Miranda, the ExYo mentors have re-imagined their familiar…
Spring into Showtime
March 22, 2021
For our annual May 20, 2021 performance Exyo youth and staff are springing ahead with artistic creations. While our show looks different than the past 25 years performing on the Wang theatre stage, our…
One Nation Under A Groove Dance Challenge!
March 15, 2021
We’re challenging our Express Yourself families, friends, people around the nation and across the world to be a part of our annual performance Imagine Nation on May 20, 2021. Follow ExYo Choreographer, James Runner to learn…
ExYo Special Guest Performer, Amanda Mena goes to Hollywood!
February 22, 2021
We’re sending a HUGE congratulations to Amanda Mena on getting a unanimous YES for the Golden Ticket to Hollywood in her audition for American Idol last night! Amanda has collaborated as a Guest…
Sending Love ❤️
February 11, 2021
2021 is our year to spring ahead! Thanks for all you do to support Express Yourself and provide pure kid joy! Exyo youth and Staff spread lots of love by making special valentine cards for our supporters. Show your…
Snow Day Sculptures at Solstice ❄️☃️
February 1, 2021
Solstice youth and Exyo Staff brought their creativity from the classroom into a winter wonderland last week. Inspired by Artist Andy Goldsworthy, youth created snow sculptures from the fresh fallen snow and other natural materials found nearby. It was an exceptionally freeing and fun experience for these youth and Exyo artists to collaborate and…
Photographer Bobbie Bush Captures Pure Kid Joy 📸
January 26, 2021
Express Yourself is thrilled to be back with our long– term collaborator, photographer Bobbie Bush again this year! Each year her photographs are the highlight of our annual performance. This year presents a scheduling challenge for our youth to be part of this exciting photo shoot. Bobbie’s artistry in capturing the youths individual expression is always an inspiration! Save the…
Serious Safety: A Covid-19 Public Service Announcement from the ExYo Mentors
January 19, 2021
The ExYo Mentors have been working on a special and timely project this year: creating original Public Service Announcements reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, how we can work together to stop the spread and keep each other safe. Mentors and ExYo Staff…
Kicking off the New Year with exciting energy!
January 12, 2021
We are kicking off the new year with exciting energy online, in studio and one to one sessions. This week we will be joined by International STOMP members currently off tour, Carlos Thomas and…
It’s A Wrap 🎁
December 15, 2020
The end of this challenging year has ExYo feeling grateful and hopeful. Grateful for our supportive, engaged community and resilient youth and hopeful as we look ahead to the new year. ExYo youth and…
Holiday Cheer and Generosity Abound!
December 8, 2020
Holiday cheer and the spirit of giving are certainly in the air this December! We extend a giant THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to donate to Express Yourself and our Art…
December 1: Giving Tuesday
November 23, 2020
In just one week we’ll launch our Giving Tuesday campaign, with a goal of raising $5,000 to send 200 Art Boxes to Go to our kids who are at home and in residential treatment…
Sun, Sand and Beach Mandalas
November 16, 2020
On a 72 degree sun filled day, Exyo artists sprung out with colored sand and materials to create a Covid friendly art project at Good Harbor Beach. Youth and staff were thrilled to be…
Jump back into the IMAGINE NATION with ExYo’s Fall Programming
September 11, 2020
ExYo remains dedicated to providing high-quality artistic programming to our youth this fall, bringing a variety of exciting multi-art programs in response to our youth’s unique needs and parent surveys, while balancing the requirements…
Summer Winding Down
August 24, 2020
Express Yourself continued to provide its highly successful arts programming throughout the summer. With art boxes to go both delivered and available for curbside pickup, the youth have had a weekly surprise that they…
Dancing Through Summer
July 27, 2020
ExYo teens have the fun opportunity to choose dance each week with ExYo choreographer James Runner. He motivates and inspires our teens to keep moving during this quarantine summer, integrating old school hip-hop moves…
Creative Mentor Leadership!
July 7, 2020
EXYO Summer Virtual Programming is in full swing! ExYo Youth of all ages have had a blast with our first few projects. ExYo Artist Laraine led our youth in building exciting Homes for Imaginary…
Express Yourself This Summer!
June 15, 2020
For the first time ever, Express Yourself is offering virtual summer programming! Thanks to the support of the Essex County Community Foundation, ExYo is offering a variety of virtual studio experiences over the course…
ZOOMING into June: Virtual Studio Programming
June 1, 2020
It’s finally June! With summer just around the corner and the end of the school year approaching, EXYO will be offering open studio sessions over ZOOM for ExYo youth. During difficult and challenging times,…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 10 Time for Celebration!
May 26, 2020
That’s A Wrap Folks! THANK YOU to everyone who tuned into our virtual performance “Come Together” last Thursday and Sunday! 2210 households (at least 4000 people!) tuned into watch the show from the USA and…
IMAGINE NATION Station: “COME TOGETHER” Virtual Performance
May 22, 2020
A Virtual Celebration! THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for joining us last night for our virtual performance. THANK YOU to all our youth, staff, artists, guest artists, collaborators, sponsors and donors…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 9 – SHOWTIME!
May 18, 2020
It’s the Week of the Show! Express Yourself’s annual performance “Come Together” is this Thursday May 21st, 2020 at 7:00pm – now virtually! This pre-recorded show celebrates a year of youth creativity, resilience, and…
Creativity Continues! IMAGINE NATION Station Art
May 15, 2020
Collaboration is at the core of the work we do at Express Yourself. We can continue to collaborate by sharing our creativity with each other! One of our partner schools principals told us this week:…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 8
May 11, 2020
We are at Week 8! The excitement is building for our virtual performance “Come Together” May 21st, 2020 7:00pm Doors open at 6:30 at exyo.org Here are some activities to keep your creativity going…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 7
May 4, 2020
Mark You Calendars for the ExYo Virtual Performance! Save the date and let all your friends and family know! MONDAY: Guided Meditation & Weekly Art Prompt Guided Meditation: Inner Super Hero Through all…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 6
April 27, 2020
Fun News! Yellow packets have arrived in ExYo kids mailboxes! It’s the last week for the “Around the World Dance Challenge” videos. Send us YOUR videos by April 29th to info@exyo.org to be part…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 5
April 20, 2020
FUN NEWS! In-person ZOOM sessions continue with our program – and we are now reaching out to units at the same time as our regular sessions! ExYo youth will be receiving a bright YELLOW…
IMAGINE NATION Station: Week 4
April 13, 2020
Fun News! Imagine Nation Station in-person ZOOM sessions have begun for all youth – same studio times as their weekly sessions! We have also initiated a program called Come Together for youth working virtually…
Imagine Nation Station: Week 3
April 6, 2020
A Virtual Celebration! While we won’t be on the big stage at the Boch Center — Wang Theatre, we’re cooking up a virtual surprise that we plan to share on the original show date,…
Imagine Nation Station: Week 2
March 30, 2020
MONDAY: Weekly Art Prompt WEEK 2: ILLUMINATE This week’s art prompt is ILLUMINATE, our 2016 show theme. If you were able to make it to that performance, what was your favorite part? If you…
Imagine Nation Station: Week 1
March 23, 2020
KICK OFF: EXYO Dance Around the World Challenge To kick off the IMAGINE NATION STATION, EXYO annual Guest Artist and STOMP member Cammie Griffin has developed fun choreography to Daft Punk’s “Around The World”…
Starting March 23: Let’s get creative online!
March 20, 2020
Starting Monday, March 23 we’re launching an online way for all of us to stay connected, keep our IMAGINE NATIONS running and keep the creative spirit alive: We’re very excited to announce IMAGINE NATION…
Planting A Seed: Wes Sam Bruce
February 21, 2020
Visiting guest artist Wes Sam Bruce was back in studio this last week working with our youth around the concepts of plant life and continuous growth. Wes spoke about how a tree first begins…
Jewelry Making with Barbara Parker!
February 10, 2020
This past Thursday, guest visual and design artist Barbara Parker worked with our Beverly middle school group on jewelry making. Each youth got to create, design and take home colourful bead necklaces.They worked with…
Weaving Together Our IMAGINE NATIONS
January 27, 2020
We kicked off 2020 by introducing our youth to collaborative weaving. Working together on three giant looms, the youth of all ages played with a variety of wools and yarns. Weaving it in and…
Wes Sam Bruce: Banners of Being
January 17, 2020
This week, our youth were delighted to welcome back to the studio collaborating guest visual artist Wes Sam Bruce. Wes hand cut and dyed individual cloth banners for each youth, that incorporated a word…
In The Spirit of Giving
December 20, 2019
We are feeling very grateful this season, as the “Spirit of Holiday Generosity” has been supporting Express Yourself, creating further opportunities for pure kid joy! Quarto Publishing Group organized 5 phenomenal holiday raffle baskets…
A Musical Painting Experience!
December 20, 2019
The ExYo studio was bursting with rhythm and color this month as our community youth tried a new creation process: painting to music! First using sharpies on muslin, the youth danced and designed…
Hardworking, Dedicated, Passionate Interns!
December 11, 2019
Over the last couple months, we were thrilled to have interns from Endicott College join us in our studio – Emily de la Rocha and Danielle Mann. Since 2009, EXYO has partnered with Endicott…
Giving Tuesday: Our Recipe for Success!
December 3, 2019
Contribute to our Recipe for Success on this Giving Tuesday! Serving 550 youth Ingredients: 1 Pinch of EXYO staff artists 1 Cup of Pure Kid Joy A smidgeon of Luck 10 tsp of…
Thankful For Our Volunteers!
November 26, 2019
This Thanksgiving, if there is one thing Express Yourself is truly grateful for, its… Our Volunteers! They embody our principles of community and collaboration and are an integral part of the Express Yourself team….
EXYO Youth View Abstract Art at Peabody Essex Museum
November 19, 2019
Over the past few weeks, Express Yourself youth received guided tours of the Peabody Essex Museum through our continued partnership with ArtLINK. The students were led through Hans Hoffman’s “The Nature of Abstraction” and…
IMAGINE NATION: EXYO 2020
November 15, 2019
Is that a bird? A plane? An ice cream cone in the clouds? With IMAGINE NATION it can be whatever we want it to be! To us, the theme IMAGINE NATION captures the essence…
Clay Nation!
November 1, 2019
Express Yourself youth continue with arts immersion exploring group movement and art, brainstorming ideas for Imagine Nation. This week artist Laraine Cicchetti sculptor and potter introduced clay to each group, tasked to create unique…
ARTS MATTER TO EXYO
October 25, 2019
Every year, we join Mass Creative in celebrating and advocating why ARTS MATTER to us and to our kids here at Express Yourself. The arts are at the foundation of all we do…
Our IMAGINE NATION Explores Puppets and Ideas
October 15, 2019
Last week we began a two-week puppet creation intensive with Astin Stratoti, our resident Puppeteer maker and creator. Youth were introduced to a variety of puppet forms, from the familiar Jim Henson muppets to…
EXYO25 Exhibition Opens at Endicott College
September 30, 2019
This week EXYO25: 25th Anniversary Performance Exhibition opened free to the public at Endicott College. This exhibition highlights the incredible artwork our youth created over the past year for the 25th anniversary performance last…
EXYO Youth are back in the Studio!
September 20, 2019
“Surprise, I’m here!” WOW! Cried one of our youth as she leaped into the newly renovated studio on opening day. Our returning youth and mentors were greatly surprised to see the colorful renovated studio….
EXYO25: 25th Anniversary Performance Exhibition Reception
September 12, 2019
EXYO25: 25th Anniversary Performance Exhibition Reception Walter J Manninen Center for the Arts 376 Hale St, Beverly, Ma 01915 Join us at a wonderful Reception: Thursday, September 26, 5:00 – 7:00 PM Music with…
EXYO Groups Begin Soon!
September 6, 2019
Ever wanted to explore painting, music, theatre, dance and sculpture all in the same place? Then Express Yourself is the place for you! Our various multi-arts groups and studio programs start up September 17th…
25 Years of Youth Performance a Success!
June 10, 2019
What a show! We want to extend a giant THANK YOU to everyone involved in making our 25th Anniversary Performance a night to remember! May 23rd, 2019 marked 25 years of celebrating pure kid…
This Is Me: Reflections of Ourselves
April 29, 2019
“And there are times I am Silence when I know I should be Singing. But… sometimes I am Confidence, and then I begin speaking—” The youth who walk through the doors of Express Yourself…
Native American Constellations Come to Life
April 22, 2019
The night sky is full of myths and legends. This year, the ExYo community youth are exploring the tale of The Great Bear, or The Big Dipper, with Native American educator and performer Annawon…
A Collaborative Creative Process
April 8, 2019
Springtime means the studio is alive with budding creativity. At Express Yourself, we work collaboratively to create our original performance pieces. Youth explore the EXYO 25 theme through a variety of materials for visual…
ExYo Mentor accepted to Northeastern University
April 1, 2019
We extend a huge congratulations to longtime Express Yourself participant & mentor Rachel Cushing on being accepted into Northeastern University’s graduate program for a Masters of Science in Accounting. Rachel has been an integral…
Washing Loads of Fun at Express Yourself!
April 1, 2019
No one wants to do their chores, ESPECIALLY not their laundry. But this year, ExYo youth are putting a giant spin on this mundane activity. Northshore Recovery High School and Solstice youth are partnering with longtime…
Powerful Storytelling
March 18, 2019
Every youth that comes through the door at Express Yourself brings a unique story with them. For most of them, that story is full difficult experiences and struggles with mental illness – in fact,…
Jeff Shade inspires confiDANCE!
March 18, 2019
Long time Express Yourself friend and collaborator Jeff Shade returned this week to kick off, or rather kick ball-change our way into performance season! An acclaimed New York based choreographer, Jeff never fails to…
ExYo Youth Take On Set Design!
March 7, 2019
To offset the winter blues, ExYo Youth have been busy creating larger than life set pieces in preparation for our 25th Anniversary performance on May 23rd, 2019. Our youth work collaboratively, each person bringing…
Wes Sam Bruce: Professional Kids at Play!
February 12, 2019
Last week, our youth had the magical opportunity to create with visual artist Wes Sam Bruce. A self described “professional kid” Wes transformed our studio into a creative play space. Over the entire day…
Mentors Share Inspiring Stories At Friendraiser!
February 11, 2019
This past Saturday, our Express Yourself mentors shared inspiring personal success stories in front of over 100 friendraiser attendees. Their powerful stories highlighted their strength and vulnerability as they shared how Express Yourself has…
25th Anniversary Angels!
January 25, 2019
Our work at Express Yourself is built on a foundation of collaboration and community. Over the past 25 years we have built an incredible network of support that has allowed us to provide the…
Youth Making Change!
January 14, 2019
In celebration of Express Yourself performing, and partnering with the Boch Center – Wang Theatre and Department of Mental Health for our “quarter” century performance on May 23, 2019, ExYo Youth designed their very…
Straight from the Windy City, Molly Blumberg Returns!
January 11, 2019
Jumping into the new year, we welcome back an old friend & collaborator Molly Blumberg. Molly is a visual artist who specializes in sculptural handmade paper. She is currently working towards her MFA in…
Special Guest: Astin Jay Stratoti
December 17, 2018
With the holidays just around the corner, ExYo welcomed local puppeteer and costume designer Astin Jay Stratoti into the studio for a full day of arts immersion with the kids. Astin’s work combines childhood…
“Express Yourself” Kicks-Off 25th Anniversary Celebrations!
December 12, 2018
Co-chairs Debbie Ponn & Vicky Boylan celebrate ExYo25! To kick-off a year-long series of the 25th Silver Anniversary celebrations, Express Yourself hosted an open house “Friendraiser” on Friday, December 7th for over 100 guests,…
Express Yourself Interns rock the studio!
December 12, 2018
Since 2009, EXYO has partnered with Endicott College and has hosted students as interns. Manninen Center for the Arts has been home to several outstanding Exyo exhibitions. This fall we hosted three Endicott interns…
ArtsLink brings EXYO Youth to Peabody Essex Museum once again!
December 12, 2018
On November 15th, Express Yourself youth from Solstice Day School toured the Peabody Essex Museum through our continued partnership with ArtsLink. The students were enthralled with the exhibit ‘Empresses of China’s Forbidden City’, which…
A BIG Treat from our Dancers
October 30, 2018
Last week, our Express Yourself Dancers performed at Beverly Main Street’s yearly Downtown Trick or Treat. In three separate pop-up performances, our dancers brought the heat on the chilly October afternoon. Cheered on by…
Happy Little Trees, Bob Ross Style
October 26, 2018
In honor of Bob Ross’ 76th birthday, Quarto and Express Yourself hosted a Bob Ross Paint Night, where both our young artists and board members, supporters and donors participated. The Express Yourself young artists…
ALIVE! 2018 at Endicott College
October 19, 2018
On October 11th, 2018, the Endicott College School of Visual and Performing arts held a reception for the Express Yourself ALIVE! 2018 Exhibition. Lively music and performance by our dancers made for a memorable…
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Our multi-arts, drumming, and dance groups will be starting before you know it!
September 5, 2018
Studio groups are starting up September 18th and 20th! The Express Yourself multi-arts groups kicks off with process oriented visual arts exploration. The focus is on building a culture and collaborative community creating the…
New Art Display in Cummings Hall
July 30, 2018
Express Yourself’s artists put together a unique display of student artwork and their photographs. The Cummings Center display consists of a collaboration of projects made by EXYO youth. To create these flowers, our young…
Our dancers can’t get enough!
July 19, 2018
Express Yourself’s talented dancers are back in our studio! These students performed in our 2018 show, ALIVE!, including an unforgettable performance with our youth-made dancing ‘rollies’ in the number Rolling through the City (pictured…
13 Reasons to FLY
June 11, 2018
ALIVE! 2018 was a massive success as we celebrated the contributions and amplified the voices of all of our youth participants. This year, we were so proud to feature Belle Cole, Melissa Modifer, and…
We are so ALIVE!
June 6, 2018
Big thanks to all who made May 31st a spectacular and LIVELY evening for everyone involved! It takes a lot of hard work to bring our grand performance to life every year. Filled with…
Different Kinds of Hurt: Issac’s Story
May 15, 2018
Different Kinds of Hurt: Isaac’s Story begins with a simple question: “What if we talked about and treated mental health the same as physical health?” For many people, mental health challenges are a taboo…
ExYo Receives Cummings Foundation Grant
April 30, 2018
We have very EXCITING NEWS! Express Yourself has been awarded $300,000 from the Cummings Foundation Grant! We are one of 33 local nonprofits awarded a total of $10 million from the Cummings Foundation-Sustaining Grants Program,…
Special Guest Artist: Jeff Shade
April 4, 2018
We have a very special guest in the studio with us today. Broadway dancer and choreographer, Jeff Shade has come to help prepare our youth for the big stage. Jeff is a choreographer for…
STOMP in the Studio
March 29, 2018
We welcome Cammie Griffin of the STOMP International tour back to our studio to work with Express Yourself youth. This will be Cammie’s seventh year working with Express Yourself. Her enthusiasm and expertise bring…
Mentors on the Big Screen
March 7, 2018
Watch out Oscars, our mentors are getting ready to hit the big screen with their debut movie trailer. Our mentors, Nic, Rachel, Brylee, and Anthony have been working hard all year to develop, film,…
Not to Toot Our Own Horn…
February 14, 2018
Not to toot our own horn, but we’re a pretty big deal! We are honored to be named non-profit of the year by the Greater Beverly Chamber and we had a ball celebrating at…
We’re Honored!
January 16, 2018
Express Yourself is honored to be recognized by the Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce as the 2018 Nonprofit of the Year. Thank you! Our achievements will be highlighted at the 7th Annual Business Awards Night —…
Set Design Comes ALIVE!
December 19, 2017
Guest artist, Nate Bertone, has joined our team, working with the ExYo staff and youth to bring our set design ideas to life. Nate works professionally as a director, set designer, playwright, and producer in New York…
#GivingTuesday – Give the gift of pure kid joy!
November 28, 2017
Give the gift of pure kid joy! As you make your holiday list and check it twice, consider giving a gift that makes a real difference for the young people we serve. The kids…
Welcome Hannah School Fifth Graders
November 9, 2017
Welcome to our first class of fifth graders from the Hannah School in Beverly. This is our third year partnering with the Hannah School to enhance their STEAM programming through our arts immersion model….
Halloween Celebration with Special Guests
November 1, 2017
Last Thursday we had a spooktacular Halloween celebration with our multi-arts group. Special guests from the Cummings Foundation came to join in the fun. The group created sculptural pieces for a haunted house facade…
#ArtsMatterDay
October 27, 2017
Today is #ArtsMatterDay! Here at Express Yourself we create empowering and immersive arts experiences for our youth in our year-long programming, and we would like to take this opportunity to celebrate why arts matter…
New Collaboration with Germaine Lawrence Begins
October 18, 2017
This week kicked off a new collaboration with the Youth Villages Germaine Lawrence Campus. As a new project funded by Janie’s Fund, girls from Germaine Lawrence will participate in a year-long drumming and arts…
Barbara Keiter – 18 Creative Years
October 11, 2017
On October 5th, 2017 at our SOUL 2017 Exhibition Reception held at the Walter J. Manninen Center for the Arts at Endicott College we honored Barbara Keiter for her 18 creative years with Express…
Welcome Back!
September 27, 2017
We are very excited to welcome our youth back to the Express Yourself studio from their summer programming. After a summer of activity, the studio is alive with the energy and excitement of our…
Soul 2017 at Endicott College
September 14, 2017
The Express Yourself Exhibition, Soul 2017, is currently on view at the Carol Grillo Gallery at the Endicott College School of Visual and Performing Arts. The exhibition features set designs and artwork from the performance at the…
Exyo Staff and New Interns at the PEM
September 7, 2017
Express Yourself staff and new interns visited the Peabody Essex Museum today to view the newest exhibition It’s Alive! Classic Horror and Sci-Fi Art from the Kirk Hammet Collection. This exhibition featured 135…
Total Eclipse of the Art
August 23, 2017
Like most of the nation, the staff at Express Yourself were very excited to view the solar eclipse on Monday, August 21st. Using creativity, our studio art supplies, and some helpful youtube tutorials, we…
Exyo in the Press
August 14, 2017
Be on the lookout for the September 2017 edition of the Northshore Magazine. Express Yourself is featured in an in-depth article written by Ian Lougheed. The article highlights the work and achievements of our…
Art Express at The Quarto Group
August 3, 2017
Express Yourself youth artwork is now being exhibited on the walls of The Quarto Group offices as part of the latest Art Express collaboration. Four large panels, originally designed as waving flag props for…
The Studio Gets a Makeover
July 11, 2017
Clean floors and a fresh coat of paint! The Express Yourself studio is looking cleaner than ever. For our summer dance group, we took the opportunity to move the furniture, tidy up, and organize….
SOUL 2017
June 7, 2017
On May 25, 2017, over 200 youth, guest artists, and performers lit up the Boch Center Wang Theater stage for the one night showing of Express Yourself’s annual performance, SOUL. This show was Express…
Michael Carroll Saves the Day
May 23, 2017
Yesterday, Express Yourself volunteer and former youth participant, Michael Carroll, was honored at the Massachusetts State Police Spring Awards Ceremony. Michael and nearly two dozen people, including State Troopers, firefighters, and private citizens, were honored…
Samba Soul
May 17, 2017
Guest artist, Marcus Santos, and his group of samba drummers are bringing a splash of Brazilian soul to this year’s Express Yourself performance at the Boch Center Wang Theater. Marcus has been working in…
Angels, gargoyles, topiaries… OH MY!
May 11, 2017
The studio was crawling with creatures on Tuesday as rehearsals for SOUL are in full swing. Special guest artists Ten31 Productions were in the studio with their living art sculptures to rehearse in costume…
Open Studio: SOUL
May 4, 2017
Last Thursday evening, Express Yourself hosted an open studio SOUL party to celebrate the launch for the upcoming show SOUL at the Boch Center – Wang Theater on May 25th. The lively after hours…
Nic Bennett Amplified
April 10, 2017
Express Yourself mentor, Nic Bennett, has been hard at work completing his large scale exhibition funded by an Amplify Grant from the Mass Cultural Council. Nic is an Express Yourself participant of 16 years and a…
Special Guest: Toussaint Liberator
April 3, 2017
The studio is in full swing rehearsal mode with the show less than two months away, and the guest artists are flooding in. Our youngest group of performers have started working with Toussaint Liberator,…
Express Yourself at the State House
March 28, 2017
Last week, Express Yourself mentor, Rachel Cushing, and staff, Molly Blumberg and Malene Jakobsen, attended a reception for the Amplify Grant recipients at the Massachusetts State House. The program is sponsored by the Massachusetts…
Happy Birthday Charlie!
March 22, 2017
Charlie, our studio therapy dog, is turning 9! The bichon frise has been with Express Yourself for two years, working hard as our studio greeter, emotional supporter, and friend to all. Charlie loves working…
NS Consortium Professional Development
March 13, 2017
On Friday, March 10th, Express Yourself hosted a professional development workshop for the faculty and staff of the Northshore Education Consortium. A wide variety of professionals including teachers, counselors, and paraprofessionals attended the workshop…
Express Yourself had a ‘Lovely’ guest in our studio
March 8, 2017
Last week, Express Yourself had the privilege of showcasing our studio to a very special guest. On February 27th Senator Joan B. Lovely came for a grand tour of our arts studio. In her third…
Exyo Artist Drives the Champions!
February 15, 2017
Our very own visual artist, Shawn-Paul Filtranti, captained a Boston Duck Boat during the New England Patriots victory parade on Tuesday, February 7th. Braving the winter elements, Shawn-Paul drove a Duck Boat full of…
Express Yourself Nominated for Non Profit of the Year
February 1, 2017
Express Yourself has been nominated for a Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce Business Award in the Non Profit of the Year category. From over 300 applications, each nomination category was vetted and narrowed down to just…
Amplify Grants Awarded to Express Yourself Mentors
January 24, 2017
Nic Bennett and Rachel Cushing, two of Express Yourself’s longest standing youth participants and mentors, have each received an Amplify Youth Voices Grant from the Mass Cultural Council. Amplify Youth Voices is a new initiative…
Cammie Griffin of STOMP International Tour Visits Express Yourself
January 19, 2017
Express Yourself was thrilled to welcome Cammie Griffin of the STOMP International Tour back to the studio to work with Express Yourself youth this week. This is Cammie’s sixth year working with Express Yourself. …
Express Yourself Artwork Featured at the Mayor’s Gallery
January 10, 2017
Artwork created by at the Express Yourself studio by students from the Beverly High School Ladders Program is on display at the Mayor’s Gallery in Beverly City Hall. Mike Cahill, the mayor of Beverly…
Good Luck Raya
December 15, 2016
As we head into winter break, we say goodbye to Raya! Raya has been an Express Yourself participant for 10 years. She first joined Express Yourself through Solstice, and has since gone on to…
New Express Yourself public art unveiled at the Cummings Center
December 8, 2016
“Express Yourself is changing the face of Cummings Center through youth art,” said Bill Cummings, founder of Cummings Properties. Look around the building at The Cummings Center 100 building and see another new piece…
Express Yourself kicks off ArtLink Partnership with the Peabody Essex Museum
November 30, 2016
On November 15, Express Yourself youth from North Shore Recovery High School visited the Peabody Essex Museum. They toured the exhibit Lunar Attraction and created mixed media art pieces in reaction to the show. These students…
Guest Artist Johnny Nichols Jr. Brings His Voice to the Studio
November 9, 2016
Express Yourself was thrilled to welcome opera singer and choral director Johnny Nichols, Jr. to the studio this past week. Born in Louisiana, Johnny has roots in church music, serving as choir director in…
SOUL Paint at the Express Yourself Studio
October 24, 2016
The Express Yourself studio was alive with creativity this past Thursday evening. We honored our educators, administrators and counselors, who work tirelessly to support and enrich the lives of youth who are part of our Express…
Art Express Launches!
October 24, 2016
Last week, Express Yourself launched its new art-leasing initiative, Art Express and the calls are rolling in! Art Express is a unique program that brings vibrant, youth-created artwork to workplaces. It’s a creative way to add…
Pop Up Parasols Featured at Arts Fest Beverly
July 20, 2016
A large sculptural installation of Express Yourself’s painted parasols is currently on display at the Grillo Gallery at Endicott College as part of Arts Fest 2016: Community Art Exhibition. For the past two years, Express…
NEA Chairman Jane Chu Meets EXYO Mentor Rachel
June 20, 2016
National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Jane Chu was recently featured at an event hosted by the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) to highlight a recent NEA grant to the National Guild for Community Arts…
EXYO Illuminates Hannah School’s Curriculum
May 12, 2016
Every Thursday morning, students and teachers from the Hannah Elementary School fifth grade move the classroom to Express Yourself’s studio where they are immersed in art, music and science. Throughout the course of the year, three…
EXYO’s Parasol Pop Up
April 26, 2016
Rachel, a youth mentor at Express Yourself, worked for the past three months designing and creating an outdoor art exhibition consisting of 60 painted parasols. The temporary installation will be exhibited outside the Cummings Center…
Get Ready for Giving Tuesday!
November 15, 2015
This year, we invite you to give your friends and family a more meaningful holiday gift. The holiday shopping season is upon us, and as you compile your list of loved ones, we ask…
EXYO is Growing!
November 15, 2015
After just one year in our expanded studio space, we’re thrilled that we can welcome more youth and families into our multi-disciplinary arts programs. We added two new groups in September, but we still…
EXYO Drummers Highlighted at Conference
November 15, 2015
In August, Express Yourself drummers were the highlighted performers at the Student Mental Health: Roles, Responsibilities and Resources educational conference. Their luncheon drumming performance followed a well received presentation by keynote speaker Dr. Janice…
EXYO honored with Community Hero Award
November 15, 2015
On November 12, at the Lenny Zakim Fund’s 20th anniversary celebration, Express Yourself was honored with a Community Hero award. The celebration was highlighted by a special performance by Sting. We’re also thrilled to…
New Community Exhibition Program
October 1, 2015
Express Yourself recently hosted several guests at the annual exhibition of our stage set artwork at Endicott College Manninen Center for the Arts. A lively reception was held, and included a reggae band, warm…
MOVE IT a Huge Success!
June 1, 2015
Express Yourself recently wrapped up its 21st year at the Citi Wang Theater with over 150 youth performing in MOVE IT. The largest audience ever enjoyed the spectacular performance with special guest stars Jared…
EXYO Drummers at Peabody Essex Museum’s Artopia
April 23, 2015
The Express Yourself drummers recently had a wonderful opportunity to perform at Artopia, an evening included in Peabody Essex’s monthly evening party series. The drummers were excited to represent Express Yourself amongst other local…
New Studio is Charged with Energy!
April 23, 2015
The new Express Yourself home at the Cummings Center is charged with creative energy and anticipation for our show in May. Our youth have been ramping up their artistic expression as they complete many…
Ribbon Cutting and Networking
April 22, 2015
On March 12, Express Yourself hosted our first Networking After-Hours with the Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce at their studio, celebrating with a grand opening. State Representative Jerry Parisella did the honors of cutting…
We Bring the Beat to Inaugural Celebration!
January 12, 2015
Joh Camara, master drummer and dancer, led the Express Yourself Drummers as they performed at Gov. Charlie Baker’s inaugural celebration last week! Everyone had a fantastic time, tapping their toes and clapping their hands….
The Launch Party was a Blast!
December 16, 2014
Party guests at the new Express Yourself Launch Party at the Cummings Center get rhythm! Stan Strickland, ExYo Co-Executive Director; Barbara Keiter, ExYo Visual Arts Director; and Margo Casey, Executive Director, North Shore…
Save the Date for our Studio Launch Party
October 6, 2014
Mark your calendar for Friday, December 5 We’ve got new digs and we’re having a celebration with great friends, great food, great music and a great way to support Express Yourself! You’re invited to…
It’s a Party in the Set!
August 6, 2014
All are invited to our Party in the Set on Sunday, September 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Join us as we celebrate 20 years of Express Yourself in performance! This wonderful event is…
Express Yourself is on the Move!
August 1, 2014
We are pleased to announce that Express Yourself will move to a spacious studio on September 5, 2014, and we are excited by the new opportunities ahead. Our new address: 100 Cummings Center, Suite…
Boston Globe features Express Yourself!
June 13, 2014
We were delighted to be featured recently in this great Boston Globe article by James Sullivan. He really captures the spirit of Express Yourself. Thank you James!
Thank you!
June 6, 2014
For more than 25 years, Express Yourself has brought young people from a feeling of isolation to a sense of community though the arts, and for 20 of those years, we have been fortunate…
Express Yourself Exhibition at 15 Walnut Street
April 30, 2014
Express Yourself art is being exhibited at 15 Walnut Street in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. Artworks from previous shows are being displayed for the month of May. Watch for our art opening soon!
Lockhart and Spaulding Surprise EXYO with Video
April 24, 2014
Keith Lockhart, Pops Conductor and Josiah A Spaulding, President and CEO, Citi Performing Arts Center, met at Boston’s Symphony Hall to create a surprise video for EXYO 20, our 20th anniversary celebration performance, which…
Family Photo Shoot Exhibit as a Garden Party Backdrop
April 8, 2014
Bobbie Bush Photography Studio hosted EXYO youth from the Salem area in a special family photo shoot. Family members, including brothers, sisters, cousins, nieces and nephews, came to her Salem-based photography studio to have…
Women’s Fund of Essex County Awards Grant
April 1, 2014
Recently Express Yourself was proud to be awarded a grant for three years for $9,000 for their Who Runs the World—Girls program! Girls gather on a weekly basis to explore multi-disciplinary arts, focusing on…