JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – For more than 40 years, the Cathedral Arts Project (CAP) has been on a mission to inspire and empower students in Duval County through the arts.
From classrooms that double as concert halls to hallways transformed into colorful galleries, CAP is creating spaces where creativity can thrive.
Building confidence and creativity
At Springfield Middle School, students recently wrapped up the year by celebrating their artistic achievements.
From paintings and poetry to dance and music, the energy and excitement were impossible to miss.
“I haven’t done a lot of artwork before, but I’m impressed,” one student said while admiring a gallery of student-created pieces.
Visual arts teaching fellow Priscilla Allen said many students had never had a chance to participate in a structured art program before CAP.
Now, they’re finding a new way to express themselves—and discovering talents they didn’t know they had.
“We didn’t even get to showcase all the artwork,” Allen explained. “I work with so many kids, and they had a lot of fun creating.”
Studio to stage
CAP is more than just art class—it’s a place where young people build confidence, develop focus, and learn emotional awareness.
Whether they’re sketching, painting, or performing original spoken word, every session is an opportunity for growth.
Tiffany Melanson, a CAP educator, said the transformation is powerful.
“Several months ago, many of these students had no idea they were capable of such things. It gives them a sense of empowerment,” she said.
Real impact
CAP tracks the impact of its programs—and the numbers speak for themselves:
- 95% of students improved in staying on task
- 89% showed better control of anger and conflict
- Nearly 90% got better at communicating with adults
That’s among more than 3,500 students in nearly 300 programs throughout the area.
“These programs don’t just enrich the lives of students—they uplift entire communities,” a CAP team member added.
Scotie Cousin workshop
Looking for a creative weekend activity for your child?
CAP is hosting a special art workshop this Saturday, June 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Beaches Museum in Jacksonville Beach.
Designed for kids ages 6 to 10, the workshop offers hands-on instruction with Jacksonville-based visual artist Scotie Cousin.
Each child will also get a color-your-own print of one of Cousin’s most popular works to take home.
