Sparwood elementary students will soon have a new way to showcase their artistic talents. The Sparwood Arts Council is bringing a new program to town; Art Walk.
Starting this spring, art by elementary students will be framed and hung around the community in businesses and public areas. Twice a year the art will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to a charity of the students’ choice.
On behalf of the Sparwood Arts Council, Sherry Benko spoke to Sparwood Council on February 17 about the new program. The goal is to begin with hang-able works of art from two students in every class from kindergarten to grade six.
“To start out with the project we'd like to keep it a little bit on the small side, that way we know we have a guaranteed winner,” said Benko.
She went on to comment, “If you have a good following in art at a young age, you're more likely to continue on. It's just like sports or anything else. If you participate when you're young, you're a team member and you will continue to be a team member as you grow up.”
Mayor and Council were pleased to hear about the new program.
“I think it's a fantastic idea,” remarked Councillor Joanne Wilton. “It's great whenever we can get young children involved in the arts.”
The Sparwood Arts Council is currently working to get community sponsors for the program. The first Art Walk showing is expected to be on display around Sparwood this spring.