Alisha McKinney is a visual artist and dedicated youth art instructor with many years of experience leading engaging and creative activities for after-school programs. She attended the School of Visual Arts (SVA), where she experimented with different art-making techniques and began developing her artistic voice. She also gained a strong foundation in art education. Alisha began her journey into youth art instruction through a Public Art course taken at SVA, where she worked with middle school students to create a public art project to display in their school.
After graduating, Alisha volunteered at Children’s Aid Society in New York City, assisting with the youth art program at their Central Harlem location. Children’s Aid supports children and their families through out-of-school programs and other vital services, and Alisha’s commitment as a volunteer led her to being offered a position as an art instructor. In this role, she guided children through art projects that encouraged self-expression and allowed them to use their imagination.
Today, she brings that same passion and dedication to The Common Place (TCP) in Southwest Philadelphia, an after-school program devoted to nurturing the growth and social emotional well-being of young people. As an Assistant Group Supervisor for TCP, Alisha plays an important role in supporting youth development by fostering a positive environment where students can discover their unique voice.
In addition to her work at TCP, Alisha is a practicing artist who sells her original artwork and participates in local Philly art markets, connecting with her community and sharing her creative vision. Through her work as both an artist and art instructor, she hopes to share the beauty of making art and inspire others to explore their own artistic potential.