The annual celebration of Youth Art Month is back and bigger than ever at Licking Heights Local Schools. The district is proud to host their Art Show for the ninth year.

All community members are welcome to join the district for their free exhibit of student creativity on Mon., March 24; Tues., March 25 and Wed., March 26. The show is open from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the gymnasium of Summit Station Intermediate School, 6565 Summit Rd SW, Pataskala, OH.

The show will include over 4,000 pieces from students in preschool through 12th grade. It is open to the public, and last year drew over 2,000 guests each night. Students preschool through sixth grade are automatically entered into the show, while seventh through 12th graders can choose if they would like to participate and which piece they want to display.

“The art show is always an exciting event because it showcases the incredible talent and creativity of our students,” says Rachel Fout, fifth grade art teacher. “This year, as we celebrate National Youth Art Month and its theme of ‘Healing Through Color,’ it’s amazing to see how students use art as a way to express themselves, process emotions, and connect with others.”

The show is a multimedia experience with clay, sculpture, 3D works, paint, pen and ink, drawings and pastels, printmaking and digital art included. Art teachers throughout the district spearhead the project, serving as docents and helping to submit, hang and display the art. 

Fout regularly takes the lead as District Art Show Coordinator. It was her idea to combine each school’s art show into one large district art show back in 2016, and ever since, she has served as the head coordinator.

“Seeing their artwork on display and witnessing the pride and excitement from both students and their families is truly rewarding. It’s a celebration of artistic expression and the collaboration of diverse talents that bring our community together,” she says.

The Artists’ Choice, Judges’ Choice, Best of Show, Principal’s Choice and Superintendent's Choice grade level awards will return this year. Members of the District Office and each building’s administrative team will also serve as judges before the show officially opens on March 24.

All elementary schools, the preschool and the intermediate school will have time to view the show during the school day.