Junior Young Talent in Oklahoma Exhibit is a Juried and Judged show consisting of Middle School Artworks. This years Exhibit consists of 86 works of art from 9 participating Oklahoma Middle Schools. Jr.YTIO is organized by the Oklahoma Art Education Association. This exhibit provides Middle School artists with a forum to exhibit their art in a public setting.
JrYTIO is part of the national observance of Youth Arts Month held in March to bring awareness to the importance of Art Education in our schools and communities.
Youth Art Month (YAM) is an annual observance each March to emphasize the value of art and art education for all children and to encourage public support for quality school art programs.
Established in 1961, YAM provides a forum for acknowledging skills that are not possible in other subjects.
The Council for Art Education (CFAE), a sponsor of Youth Art Month, adopted the national theme, “Start with Art, Learn for Life.” Art Education develops self-esteem, appreciation of the work of others, self-expression, cooperation with others, and critical thinking skills. All of these skills are vital to the success of our future leaders – our children.
Youth Art Month’s Purposes Are:
1. To direct attention to the value of art education; which develops divergent and critical thinking;
multicultural awareness; and technical, communication, and expressive skills.
2. To increase community, business and governmental support for art education.
3. To recognize that art is a necessity for the full development of better quality of life for all people.
4. To expand art programs in schools and stimulate new ones.
5. To increase community understanding and interest in art and art education through involvement in
art exhibits, workshops, and other creative venues.
6. To provide additional opportunities for individuals of all ages to participate in creative art learning.
7. To encourage commitment to the arts by students, community organizations, and individuals
everywhere.
8. To recognize art education as a viable component in the total education curricula that develops
