If you’ve visited the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts lately and happened upon detailed depictions of a jolly purple Shape Eater, a whimsical bunch of bright blue flowers or a lifelike cat named Pixie, lucky you. These are just a few of the wonderful (and wonder-filled) pieces showcased in the 64th Young Arkansas Artists exhibition running through Aug. 10.
“As the longest-running and only statewide K-12 art competition and exhibition, YAA reflects the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts’ deep commitment to the arts, to arts education and young people throughout the state,” says Chris Revelle, AMFA Director of Community Engagement, and Patricia Graves, AMFA Community Engagement Manager. “The exhibition and its connected programs, like the YAA Family Festival, highlight the incredible work of both Arkansas educators and students, and invite all guests to find inspiration at the Museum.”
This year the museum received 378 student artwork submissions, encompassing a wide range of materials, techniques, themes and perspectives. The exhibition is comprised of three works per grade selected by a panel of museum and art professionals.
“Year after year, we are in awe of the diversity and imagination students share through their work, and we are honored to provide a platform to celebrate their voices.”
The mission of the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is to create an inclusive cultural space that inspires and builds community through the visual and performing arts. AMFA provides enriching experiences in the arts for all. For more information about the YAA and other AMFA exhibitions and events, visit arkmfa.org.