Their creative side: Youth artists bring creativity to downtown Thomasville

THOMASVILLE — Creativity abounds! The work of the High School Youth Arts Month (YAM) visual art competition finalists line Jackson Street in downtown Thomasville through March 30, as a visual reminder of the importance of art in the lives of young people. 

Youth Arts Month is a national initiative intended to immerse and engage America’s youth in the visual and performing arts. During this time, the Center shines the light on the talent and the creativity of youth ages 14-18 through the downtown public art installation, a performing arts competition, and a high school art exhibition and competition which showcases the incredible talents of Thomas and Grady county high school art teachers and students. The month also includes family activities at the Center, as well as concerts presented by South Georgia Ballet and Thomasville Entertainment Foundation. 

“We know that young people engaged in art become more creative and empathetic citizens. This is more important than ever as we lean towards building a more connected community. We also want to encourage young people to continue their artistic development long after high school,” said Mary Oglesby, Art with Schools Director. 

Thomasville High School Scholars Academy senior Jada Jones took home the top scholarship to the college arts program of her choice for her portfolio of work featuring illustrative portraiture. Jones hopes to attend the University of Georgia or University of Carolina Chapel Hill in the fall to major in Studio Art. 

Other top prizes include: 

First place: Senior Melonie Smith, Thomas County Central High School 

Second place: Senior Ava White, Thomasville Scholars Academy 

Third place: Senior Ellie Griffin, Thomasville Scholars Academy 

TCCHS senior Ashton Scully won the Creativity Award. Awards of Excellence were earned by senior Meghan Barwick (THS/Scholars Academy), sophomore Emma Broome (Brookwood), and sophomore Riley Joyner (Cairo High School). The High School Visual Arts Show will be on exhibit at the Center through March 30. 

Center galleries are open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and free for the public, current exhibitions include “Next 100 Years” an afro-futurism exhibition, the High School Visual Art Show, and the First Presbyterian Preschool Art Exhibit.

The Youth Arts Month event lineup includes: 

March 22: Swingtime with the Jive Aces by Thomasville Entertainment Foundation at 7:30 p.m.
 

March 26 : Shakespeare In Jazz, presented by Thomasville Entertainment Foundation at 11 a.m. 

FLAUNT2022: Let’s Play! | Through April 14 

Public Art Walk | Creative District

For more details about these programs for youth and families, visit thomasvillearts.org/education.