Two Upstream Arts teaching artists facing one another, arms outstretched - copying each others movement

The Art of Relationships

Through poetry, painting, music, dance, and theatrical role playing The Art of Relationships focuses on safe relationships and intimacy. It empowers students to make informed, healthy choices about all of their relationships and gives them information that increases their independence while decreasing risks of abuse, unhealthy relationships, and negative health outcomes. The Art of Relationships covers topics such as consent, dating, safety, gender identity and expression, how the body works, sex and intimacy, and birth control. We use the artistic practices to unpack the learning, process emotions, rehearse real-life situations, and practice self-advocacy. 

The Art of Relationships was developed in partnership with professional sex educators and is adapted for different ages and all gender identities.

  • School Programs: High School, and Transition Programs
  • Adult Programs: Adult Day Programs or other Disability Service Providers
  • Community Programs: Community organizations, Friendship Clubs, Parks and Recreation

The Art of Relationships was featured on Minnesota Public Radio in August 2015! Click here for the full story.

Upstream Arts Participant at Opportunity Partners (photo: David Luke)
“The conversation around sex and relationships has not happened in these individuals’ lives and is not currently happening; and as a result, people are making inappropriate and unsafe choices. We have a need for programming that begins this dialogue and creates a space for discussion and learning. Upstream Arts’ use of the arts makes learning experiential, less abstract, and relatable to real life choices and situations.”

– Michelle Dickerson, Vice President of Program Services, Midwest Special Services