DOTHAN, Ala. — The Wiregrass Museum of Art has received a second year of funding from the Alabama Power Foundation to continue Studio 126, a free after-school art program for teens across the Wiregrass.
According to the museum, Studio 126 serves middle and high school students from Houston, Geneva, Coffee, Dale and Henry counties. The program provides free weekly art instruction during the school year.
“Receiving this second year of support is an affirmation of the impact Studio 126 is having on young people throughout our region,” said Dana-Marie Lemmer, executive director of the Wiregrass Museum of Art. “For many students, this program is much more than an art class. It is a place where they feel accepted, challenged, inspired, and empowered to discover their own creative voice. We are deeply grateful to the Alabama Power Foundation for investing in the future of our area’s youth.”
During the 2025-2026 school year, 33 students from public, private, virtual and homeschool programs participated in Studio 126.
Students explored drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media and mural-making. They also worked with professional artist Sarah Painter to create a permanent mural for the museum’s Education Gallery.
Students developed personal portfolios, prepared artist statements and hosted a public exhibition of their work.
According to the museum, participating parents rated Studio 126 5 out of 5 as both a safe, supervised environment and a beneficial structured after-school activity. Families also reported improvements in students’ confidence, communication skills and creativity, along with new friendships.
One student shared, “Studio 126 has always been a safe place away from home, where I can draw, socialize and feel happy.”
Another student wrote, “It shows me that what I like isn’t bad, weird, or stupid. It means I can be me.”
With the renewed funding, the museum plans to expand opportunities for students during the upcoming school year. Plans include helping students build professional art portfolios for college admissions and scholarship applications, offering more workshops with professional artists and increasing community-based creative projects.
Students will also take part in large-scale collaborative design and functional art projects, receive mentorship for regional art competitions and help create an end-of-year exhibition.
The grant will help pay for art materials, staffing and studio operations, allowing Studio 126 to remain free for participating students.
“Adolescence is a critical time for developing confidence, identity, and a sense of belonging,” said Alexandria Turner, art educator and studio manager at the Wiregrass Museum of Art. “Studio 126 gives young people a place to create, collaborate, and connect. By removing financial barriers, we’re ensuring that every student with an interest in art has the opportunity to grow their talents and discover their potential.”
Studio 126 meets weekly during the school year at the Wiregrass Museum of Art. Participation is free, but registration is required.
Students can register for Studio 126 at:
For more information about Studio 126 or other educational programs, contact the Wiregrass Museum of Art at (334) 794-3871.
