Partners In Art

We are blessed to live in a community that cherishes the fine arts and instills those values in our children.  We have a terrific civic auditorium, the Sturges-Young Auditorium in town, that hosts the Sturgis Council of the Arts.  They bring in many fine musicians, plays, comedians, and shows to our small community.  One of the many great programs funded by the Council of the Arts is "Partners in Art."  This year, I am also president of a local non-profit group, the Sturgis Junior Women's League that fundraise and volunteer in our community.  Last year, one of our recipients from our money raised was the Partners in Art program.  Little did I know at that time that my own Olivia would be blessed by this program.
                                                 
For Partners in Art, 40 school age children, grades K-12, each have one piece of artwork selected and have each of them professionally matted and framed including a small plaque with the artist's name.  There was a beautiful reception where all the works of art were on display at the auditorium and friends and family were invited to come see all the talent our school age students have in this town.  I loved that we got to choose who we wanted to have invited and they sent out invitations to our guests of our choice.  Of course we invited all the family living in the area, but I thought it would be special for Olivia to invite Jackie and Ms. Roberts.  Neither disappointed us, and they showed up for the guest of honor.  Each piece of artwork is leased by area businesses and put on display for one year.  Wouldn't you know, Olivia's piece was leased by Warren English and will hang at Nana's work for her to enjoy everyday.  Well. everyday she works that is, since she is now semi-retired.

The proud artist standing by her masterpiece.

                                                   

Jackie was one of the special invited guests and she gladly came.  Olivia was thrilled she came, as was Mia.

The Smith family of course came out to support their cousin, Olivia as well.

Olivia and her 2nd grade teacher.  She was in Ms. Roberts' room when she created her sun painting.

It was a terrific event and so fun to see all the other amazing works of art created by all ages in our schools.  I'm proud to call this community my home when I see great programs like these continue.