Risky Business: Engaging Marginalised Young People in the Creative Arts

This paper reports on The Risky Business research project (2002-2005), which investigated the effectiveness of the creative arts as a diversionary intervention for young people at risk. In this three-year Australian Government funded study, ten arts programs were conducted across urban and rural areas in South East Australia in association with various organisations, including youth support and custodial centres. The study demonstrates that arts programs can have a significant and positive impact on marginalised young people, offering opportunities for skill development and social inclusion. However the Risky Business study also indicates that arts work with marginalised young people can be challenging and that meaningful engagement is crucial in ensuring a social impact. Through an analysis of the Risky Business data, the paper argues that there are four key factors that facilitate the engagement of young people in arts interventions.