All American Youth Art Walk

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

The courthouses in east and west Pasco County, Florida, had bare walls and atmospheres thick with grim expectancy. The art classes in the Pasco County School District had — have — talented teachers and eager students, but few places to display their work. In July 2013, a plan was hatched to benefit both: The Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller invited public school artists to turn its stark public areas into galleries. Our goal: Create a public-recognition event benefitting several populations, ranging from students and teachers, to the patrons of our public buildings, to the employees who work in them. Tabbed the All American Youth Art Walk, the plan blossomed on March 30, 2016, with the hanging of 103 works of student art representing 31 schools. Besides boosting the artists and their schools, our collaboration presented a gift to the public and courthouse staff. Our galleries of eye-pleasing student artwork have proved mood-altering, lifting the spirits of countless passersby and employees alike. Working together with the school district and community leaders, we demonstrate the importance of championing art education — and its ancillary benefits, beginning with improved academic achievement — in our schools. Now in its second successful year, the All American Youth Art Walk delivers.