PARKERSBURG — The West Virginia Art Education Association (WVAEA) is recognizing the talented K-12 artists and educators from across the state of West Virginia for their outstanding participation in the WVAEA State Youth Art Month Exhibit.

Each year, the WVAEA provides a platform for West Virginia art educators and their students to showcase their artistic prowess, fostering creativity and artistic expression. This event not only celebrates the artistic achievements of our youth but also highlights the dedication and passion of their educators.

For several years, the Parkersburg Art Center has hosted the event. This year, the WVAEA is proud to announce three esteemed donation sponsors: the West Virginia Watercolor Society, Dick Blick, and WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center. Thanks to the generosity of these sponsors, the WVAEA will be able to award students and their art educators prizes totaling close to $5,000 at the YAM Prospectus Competition.

The WVU Medicine CCMC special prize award has a focus on one of their pillars of care. Students were invited to create work with a theme of “competence.”

“The support from our sponsors is invaluable in nurturing the artistic growth of our students and recognizing the dedication of our educators,” said Dr. Jeffrey Grubbs, President of the West Virginia Art Education Association. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment to arts education in West Virginia.”

“Youth Art Month Awards Ceremony and Portfolio Review: Celebrating Young Artists and Art Education in West Virginia” will be held March 9 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Parkersburg Art Center. This event will be a celebration of the creativity and talent of young artists across West Virginia, as well as an opportunity for students to receive valuable feedback on their artwork, organizers said.

From 10 a.m.-noon, several faculty members from West Virginia college and university art departments will be present to conduct portfolio reviews for high school students. This presents a unique chance for students to showcase their portfolios and receive constructive feedback from experienced professionals in the field.

Following the portfolio review session, the YAM Prospectus Award Ceremony will commence from 1-3 p.m. on the third floor of the art center. During this ceremony, officials will honor the winners of the 2024 YAM Prospectus Competition and WV Flag Competition. Winners and their teachers will have been notified in advance and have been encouraged to attend.

“We are excited to recognize the exceptional talent and hard work of our young artists through the YAM Awards Ceremony,” said Grubbs. “This event not only celebrates their achievements but also highlights the importance of art education in our state.”

For more information about the WVAEA and its initiatives, visit https://www.wvaea.com

The WVAEA is dedicated to promoting excellence in visual arts education in West Virginia. Through advocacy, professional development, and community engagement, the WVAEA strives to ensure that all students have access to a comprehensive and high-quality arts education.