By City Manager Ken Striplin
Last year, we welcomed an abundance of inspiring public art pieces throughout Santa Clarita. We unveiled the unique ‘Imag_ne’ sculpture by artist Emma Anna in front of the Valencia Library. We saw artist Miguel A. Del Real create an amazing mural for the Santa Clarita Skate Park. Additionally, we revitalized six sidewalks with poems from multiple talented poets. This year, the City of Santa Clarita continues our celebration of public art, as we put the spotlight on our community’s young emerging artists in our 5th year of the Youth Arts Showcase on Saturday, March 21, from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Centre.
This is a special moment for the students in our community to put their outstanding artistic abilities on display for all to see. The free event will highlight each of our school districts’ visual and performing artists, feature classes from local dance studios, present street painting masterpieces and include other exciting demonstrations.
When attending this year’s Youth Arts Showcase, you will notice that the event is divided into five different areas, all of which I recommend that you explore. As you come in, you will notice the Street Painting and Outdoor Interactive Area, providing you with the opportunity to watch youth street painting teams use pastels to paint sidewalk masterpieces. After observing the impressive street art, turn your attention to the Outdoor Performing Arts Stage, where you’ll enjoy great performances by youth choruses, bands and dance teams.
The fun continues at the Youth Art Gallery, where you’ll view the canvas, technical art and photography of student contest winners and finalists. Gallery attendees will also have the opportunity to vote on their favorite featured artwork for the “People’s Choice” award. Next, take a stroll with family and friends through the Interactive Youth Art Area to test your painting abilities, build amazing masterpieces, get a caricature of yourself and receive a guided art drawing lesson. The Indoor Performing Stage will also feature great performances from local schools, ensembles and choirs. Finally, take a break from walking and browsing to relax in the Audio-Visual Room and view creative films from local youth talent.
With so many fantastic art pieces to engage and interact with, make sure you stay hydrated and nourished by visiting one of the food trucks that will be on-site during the entire event. Art vendors will be present as well for you to take some of the fun home with you. For more information on all featured art, activities, vendors and more, I encourage you to visit the Youth Arts Showcase website at SantaClaritaArts.com/Youth-Arts-Showcase. You may also contact our Art and Events Supervisor, Yolanda Calderon, with any questions you may have at [email protected].
The City of Santa Clarita is grateful for all the hard work and dedication of our community’s young artists. I hope that you all will take the time to support and celebrate them at the 5th Annual Youth Arts Showcase on Saturday, March 21. This is a great opportunity to witness the positive impact of art education in our City, while also supporting the emerging talent of our young residents.
The Centre is located at 20880 Centre Pointe Parkway, Santa Clarita.
Ken Striplin can be reached at [email protected]. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.