_edited.png)
HOOPLA Rising
HOOPLA Rising is a free wearable art mentorship program that empowers emerging artists to explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression through the creation of original sculptures from reclaimed materials.
Guided by internationally published artist and HOOPLA founder Perrin Marie, participants explore the history and significance of the hoopskirt while developing their own artistic voices.
Through hands-on experimentation, technical guidance, and personalized mentorship, each artist designs and constructs a one-of-a-kind wearable sculpture.
The program culminates in a public runway showcase, where artists debut their creations, share their artistic statements, and celebrate what taking up space means to them.
At the heart of HOOPLA Rising is one question:
What does taking up space mean to you?
Why HOOPLA Rising?
HOOPLA Rising encourages participants to trust their creativity, value their perspectives, and imagine new possibilities for themselves and their communities.
HOOPLA asks what happens when we stop shrinking ourselves and start taking up space.
HOOPLA Rising asks what happens when we create space for emerging artists.
Participants Receive
-
Steel hoops and access to reclaimed materials
-
HOOPLA Hoop Skirt Basic Build Guide
-
HOOPLA Rising Artist Workbook
-
Personalized artistic mentorship and technical guidance
-
Access to sewing equipment and workspace through community partners
-
Professional photography and videography
-
An opportunity to showcase their work publicly
-
Full ownership of their completed artwork
Who Can Apply?
There is no single “right” kind of artist for this program.
Whether you have been making art for years or are just beginning your creative journey, you’re encouraged to apply.
Creative work can include art, writing, performance, music, photography, fashion, crafts, community projects, or other creative endeavors.
Participant Outcomes
-
Design and construct an original wearable sculpture
-
Develop creative problem-solving and technical skills
-
Explore their artistic voice and personal expression
-
Write an artist biography and statement
-
Build confidence presenting and discussing their work
-
Gain experience exhibiting and performing before a public audience
-
Leave with a portfolio-quality artwork and professional documentation
Cost & Accesibility
Thanks to community support, sponsorship, and fundraising efforts, selected participants are invited to participate at no cost.
Participants are responsible for transportation to scheduled program activities and events.
Program Timeline
1
Apply
Applications open for emerging artists of all ages.
Up to 12 participants will be selected.
2
Create
Participants learn about HOOPLA, the historical significance of the hoopskirt, creative reuse, and explore what "taking up space" means to them.
Participants design and build their wearable sculptures independently with mentorship and technical support.
3
Present
Participants will debut their wearable sculptures at a showcase at the end of the program.
Artists will also present artist biographies, statements and a statement of what "taking up space" means to them.
Mentorship
Artists work independently at home while mentorship, technical guidance, and feedback from HOOPLA Founder Perrin Marie.
Mentorship is distributed throughout the program and may take place in person, over Zoom, by phone, or through text-based communication.
Mentorship is designed to support participants throughout the creative process, from initial ideas and design development to construction, presentation preparation, and the final runway experience.
The Next Generation of HOOPLA Rising
The inaugural HOOPLA Rising artists have taken the runway, and we're excited to continue creating space for emerging artists!
Plans for the next generation of HOOPLA Rising are underway.
Interested in participating, collaborating, or supporting the program?
Get in touch and help us make HOOPLA!
Guardian Information
HOOPLA Rising encourages creative experimentation while prioritizing participant safety, communication, and support.
Parents and guardians will be asked to review program expectations, complete required forms, and support transportation and scheduling as needed.
Participants retain ownership of all artwork created through the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
I Don't Own A Sewing Machine, Can I Still Participate?
Yes!
Participants who do not have access to a sewing machine at home will be able to use sewing equipment and workspace provided through HOOPLA's community partners.
Can Homeschoolers Apply?
Yes.
HOOPLA Rising is open to eligible participants regardless of educational setting, including public school, private school, homeschool, and alternative education programs.
When & Where is the Runway Presentation?
TBD
The next HOOPLA Rising program is under devlopment.
Is This A Weekly Class?
TBD.
The next HOOPLA Rising program is under devlopment.
Can Participants Work Together?
Participants are welcome to encourage and support one another; however, each participant is expected to design and create their own original wearable sculpture.
Can I schedule all 10 mentorship hours at once?
No.
Mentorship is designed to support participants throughout the creative process and is distributed across the duration of the program rather than provided as a single extended session.
How Much Time Will This Take?
Participants should expect to spend approximately 10-12 weeks independently developing their wearable sculpture, with mentorship sessions scheduled throughout the program.
How Much Does It Cost?
Thanks to community support, sponsorship, and fundraising efforts, selected participants are invited to participate at no cost.
Can mentorship time be used for extra help?
Mentorship is available to help participants develop ideas, solve creative challenges, receive technical guidance, and prepare for presentation.
While support and feedback are provided throughout the program, participants are responsible for creating and constructing their own wearable sculptures.
Questions?
Get in touch!
