For the second year, a Roosevelt High School student is submitting her artwork to be displayed in the Emily’s Hope Youth Art Showcase.
“Seeing all the different people and how their own personal experiences kind of related to the topic along with their artwork,” said Grace Kiser, a junior at Roosevelt High School who submitted her art for the showcase.
This year’s theme is ‘Rise Above,’ and the submissions so far include a wide range of interpretations.
“We have a lot of art that is created like in the sky or, being above something,” said Courtney Hardie, youth prevention coalition program manager for Emily’s Hope. “So, kind of that literal interpretation of rising above. But then as you get to the older students, you see more of a metaphorical interpretation of rising above.”
Kiser’s submission this year is a watercolor piece that resembles her bedroom.
“I have, like, schoolwork and challenging things that people might be discouraged from doing,” said Kiser. “But then I think on the wall where I have all the inspiration stuff, it’s kind of a way, you know, you’re facing life’s hard challenges right now. There’s still reasons and opportunities for you to go on and to keep on going, to rise above your challenges.”
But whether students are beginners or advanced when it comes to art, all submissions are welcome.
“We’re not looking for perfection or for the next Van Gogh,” said Hardie. “We love just seeing students be able to express themselves in a healthy way, and that’s really what we’re trying to promote with this youth art showcase is to provide an outlet for creative expression, provide a release or stress release for, anything that’s maybe going on in their lives.”
Students in grades 6-12 have until Friday, April 17th to submit their pieces, which can be physical art or performance art. The showcase will take place on April 23rd.