Californians for the Arts named Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, a 2019 Legislative Arts Star for his efforts in supporting arts education during his tenure as an elected representative.
The organization, which, according to its website, is dedicated to increasing public awareness of the arts and ensuring arts are accessible to every Californian, presented the award to Wilk on “Arts Advocacy Day,” when more than 150 arts advocates descended on the state Capitol to discuss the importance of art with their elected officials.
“It is an honor to receive this award. Santa Clarita has a vibrant art community so I am very aware of the importance of promoting the arts in our community, our schools and in Sacramento,” Wilk said in a news release Friday. “A report by Americans for the Arts states that young people who participate regularly in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, to participate in a math and science fair or to win an award for writing an essay or poem than children who do not participate.”
Californians for the Arts believes the arts give voice to many communities, spark individual creativity, foster empathy and understanding, spur civic engagement and serve as a continual source of personal enrichment, inspiration and growth, according to the organization’s website.
“The benefits of art for our children’s development are endless — fine motor skills, analytic thinking, focus, collaboration and accountability,” Wilk said. “And, to be honest, the arts also bring immense enjoyment and beauty to our communities. I am a proud supporter for so many reasons.”
