# Project Open Door

Free art and design program from RISD for high schoolers in Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Woonsocket — Saturday portfolio studio, after-school classes, and summer workshops at no cost.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Rhode Island School of Design |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Providence, RI |
| Apply | https://www.risdprojectopendoor.com/ |

## About this program

# Project Open Door

Project Open Door (POD) is the Rhode Island School of Design's community arts program, providing free art and design programming to high school students who attend public and charter schools in Rhode Island's urban core cities of Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Woonsocket. Housed in RISD's Teaching + Learning in Art + Design department, POD has connected local teens to RISD-quality studio instruction since 2005.

## What You'll Do

- Build a college-ready portfolio in the Saturday Portfolio program during the school year
- Take after-school art and design classes taught by RISD graduate teaching artists through POD + Schools
- Join short-term workshops and summer studios offered through POD + Partners
- Work alongside practicing artists in studio settings and get regular feedback on your work

## Who Should Apply

Creative teens in grades 9-12 who attend public or charter high schools in Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, or Woonsocket. All programming is free, and no prior art training is required — contact the POD office (pod@risd.edu) to get started.

## Outcomes

Participants develop competitive art and design portfolios for college admission, receive encouragement and support toward high school graduation and postsecondary education, and gain sustained mentorship from the RISD community, all at no cost to their families.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Project Open Door cost?

Project Open Door is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for Project Open Door?

Project Open Door is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Project Open Door online or in person?

Project Open Door is an in-person program based in Providence, RI.

### How do I apply to Project Open Door?

Apply directly through Rhode Island School of Design's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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