March is Youth Art Month, a time to celebrate the impact of the arts in education and recognize the creativity of young artists in our community. While many know the Academy Center of the Arts for its on-campus camps, classes, and workshops, our Academy in Motion (Art Bus) allows us to extend our reach beyond our walls, bringing art directly into the community. This month, we are proud to highlight the many ways we collaborate with local schools, including exhibitions, artist residencies, and meaningful partnerships with Lynchburg City Schools (LCS). Through these initiatives, we continue our commitment to supporting and uplifting students- our youngest community members.
On March 12, the Academy Center of the Arts welcomed students, families, and educators to the BWXT Student Gallery for the LCS Youth Art Show Reception, an evening dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of LCS students. Seeing these young artists take pride in their work and share their creative journeys was truly special. Their talent, imagination, and dedication are a testament to the importance of arts education in local schools. Those who have not yet had a chance to visit can still view the exhibit, which remains open through March 31.
Artist in Residence Program at Bass Elementary: Bringing Art into the Classroom
Through the Artist in Residence Program, the Academy Center of the Arts connects professional artists with students to engage in hands-on learning experiences. This year, Christina Davis, a talented muralist and educator, is working with students at William Marvin Bass Elementary.
Supported by Centra, Davis’ residency has provided young learners with the opportunity to explore new artistic techniques while discovering the power of creative storytelling. Students have embraced the process, gaining confidence in their abilities and learning how art can be a meaningful form of expression.
Breakfast with the Superintendent: Advocating for the Arts
On March 13, the Academy Center of the Arts participated in the LCS Breakfast with the Superintendent, where the theme, “Inspiring Achievement Through the Arts.” Hosted by the Education Foundation,this event focused on the essential role of arts education in student growth and success. Michelline Hall, Chief Programming Officer, spoke alongside Taylor Wissikirchen (Heritage High School Theatre Teacher) and Kayla Jones (Sandusky Middle School Visual Arts Teacher), sharing the ways theatre, visual arts, and community partnerships help students develop creativity, critical thinking, and confidence. The event brought together educators, administrators, and community members in support of the arts. Special thanks go to Centra for their continued support of the Artist in Residence Program, making these experiences possible for students.
Continuing the Celebration
Youth Art Month is more than just a moment—it’s a movement that highlights the importance of arts education in shaping the next generation. The Academy Center of the Arts remains committed to providing students with opportunities to explore, create, and grow through the arts. Whether through exhibitions, field trips, in-school residencies, or community programs, the organization will continue working to ensure that all students have access to meaningful arts experiences. Thank you to Lynchburg City Schools, educators, and community partners for making this such a special month.
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- BXWT representive, Nathanial Marshall enjoying the LCS Youth Gallery Show
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- Our Young Artist in Action
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- LCS artist showcasing her work
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- Our Artist in Residence, Christina Davis working with Bass Elementary
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- Bass Elementary students
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- Our Chief Programming Officer, Michelline Hall, joined alongside other colleagues at the LCS Breakfast
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- Our Artist in Residence, Christina Davis.
#YouthArtMonth #LCSYouthArtShow #ArtsInEducation #VCA #SupportYoungArtists
Sponsors:
AIM: BWXT
BWXT Student Gallery: BWXT
AIM at LCS: First National Bank
Artist In Residence: Centra
Field Trips: IWT, Al Stroobants Foundation
If include Young Storytellers: Financial Designs