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Art Tag: 2025

Identity Quilt

1st Grade Class

Ford Elementary School
Teacher: Katherine Marsh
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

We learned about identity in first grade. Just like a quilt, the many pieces of our identity create something beautiful when you put us together. Our identity quilt includes drawings and words that represent our identities.

"If you are kind to someone, someone will be kind to you."

Misaki K.

4th Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Dancing Away Our Differences

Novalynn H.

5th Grade, Erickson elementary
Teacher: Heidi Roberts
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Dancing is universal! It has the potential to break language barriers and is a fun way to learn about other traditions.

"We all have agreements and disagreements but at the end of the day, we are still friends"

Gautam M.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Look another one…..I can’t believe they freed the slaves……

Asha Jordan

Detroit, Michigan

Artist Statement

Being black, you walk around with many faces. Being a black artist you hope for many chances and see none. Being a black women artist, your chances are slim and the odds are against you. Over 20 years in this industry I am continuing to advocate for people of color and help maintain mental health through art. I am that black girl who does that black art.

"Be kind even if someone is being mean."

Alexis M.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Echoes of Amihan Whispers of Diwa

Abby Garcia

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

“This painting is a tribute to my Filipino heritage, drawing inspiration from Amihan—the northeast wind—and Diwa—the soul or spirit. These deeply rooted Filipino concepts symbolize freedom, inner strength, and the connection between nature and the self.

The gentle breeze of Amihan moves through the figure, representing the unseen forces that guide us forward. The ocean reflects Diwa, vast and calm, mirroring the depth of our thoughts and emotions. Together, they create harmony between movement and stillness, capturing the balance between the outer world and the inner self.

Through this work, I celebrate the resilience and quiet strength woven into Filipino identity and culture. It is an invitation to reflect on how nature shapes who we are and how, like the wind and sea, we can be both powerful and free.”

"We are always kind. We always care."

Vanessa D.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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My Heart

Tywree Bailey

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

“My Heart” is a testament to the enduring strength of family and the boundless power of love. This piece speaks to the deep, unspoken connection between a mother and child—a bond that nurtures, protects, and uplifts through every challenge. The warm, vibrant colors reflect the richness of our shared humanity and the beauty found in moments of care and devotion.

Family is where we find our strength. It’s where we first learn to love, to hope, and to fight for a better world. “My Heart” honors the families that build communities and the love that holds us together, even when the world feels heavy.

This work is a call to action for us all to create spaces where every family, every individual, is seen, valued, and celebrated. We each have a role in making our communities more inclusive and compassionate. Let this piece remind you of the importance of love, not just in our homes, but in how we treat one another out in the world.”

"Patience will lead to your hopes and dreams"

Alvin Z.

4th grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Look Up

Tylear Jefferson

Garden City, Michigan

Artist Statement

Look Up captures a profound moment of reflection, self-care, and hope. This piece portrays the act of looking upward, symbolizing a shift in perspective, a moment of pausing to reconnect with oneself and find clarity amidst life’s chaos. The vibrant colors and expressive brushstrokes reflect the complexity of emotions we navigate on the journey toward self-awareness and healing.

The upward gaze is a universal gesture of seeking guidance, strength, or peace, reminding us of the importance of caring for our mental and emotional well-being. Look Up encourages viewers to take a moment for themselves, to breathe, and to find beauty in the act of slowing down and reconnecting with what truly matters.

Through this work, I invite others to embrace self-care and recognize the power of even the simplest actions in reclaiming balance and serenity in their lives.”

""

Willa D.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Home Where We Live

Takeisha Jefferson

Garden City, Michigan

Artist Statement

Here I explore the beauty of community and shared responsibility. Through the vibrant, imperfect homes nestled closely together, this watercolor and mixed-media piece speaks to the diversity and individuality of lives lived side by side. The uneven shapes, weathered textures, and varied colors of the houses highlight the imperfections that make each home and each person, unique. Yet, their closeness emphasizes a shared bond, a reminder that community is built on connection and interdependence.
At the center of the piece, a figure carefully balances the Earth, embodying the resilience and care required to sustain both our neighborhoods and our planet. Surrounding the homes are cosmic elements, soft galaxies and sparkling stars, blurring the line between the intimate and the infinite, showing how our everyday lives are woven into the fabric of a much larger universe.

This collective existence is where imperfections and closeness coexist to form something beautifully human.

"A small walk can change your day"

Yazan K.

4th grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Save the World

Aiyana B., LaMya D., & A’Nyla H.

5th Grade, Erickson Elementary
Teacher: Heidi Roberts
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Our art is about how the world is bad and good. It’s about how people can change the world. It’s about helping to save the world.

"If we don't give up we can change the world"

Tia S.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Together We Build A Better World

Susan Clinthorne

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

I’ve always wished to share my thoughts and feelings with others in a way that makes them feel what I feel. This is especially true regarding issues that shape our world view. Words are not enough and in fact, for me, they are dense and inadequate.  Expressing through visual arts goes straight to the heart, a short cut straight to the mind’s eye. It is my signature, created with my own hand.  My favorite tools are color and contrast. Both of these generate excitement in my world.

"We are all one world family connected by love."

Jangbu S.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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What’s On The Inside Counts

Tanner L.

5th Grade, Erickson Elementary School
Teacher: Heidi Roberts
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

I chose to create this piece for Embracing Our Differences because it does not matter what color you are, it’s about what’s on the inside that counts.

"Diversity makes everyone unique."

Claire N.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Group Pic

Camilla D.

5th Grade, Erickson Elementary School
Teacher: Heidi Roberts
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

I chose to create three girls together taking a photo. This shows that we should embrace our differences because they are all different and have different skin colors.

"If you can't talk to someone, try to show it."

Minnah S.

3rd Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Allison Weir
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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What’s Gonna Happen To The Children

Laura Irene Wayne

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

What’s happening to our children
what legacy do we leave
what thoughts of violence hate and distrust
do we teach them to believe
what’s happening to our children
growing up unwanted, abandoned
feeling they have no use
dying or suffering from starvation,
drugs, aids, sexual and physical abuse
what’s happening to our children
what laws protect them
before their cry is heard
without stripping them of their rights
their undaunted words
what’s happening to our children
is probably the same thing
that has happened too many
like you, like me
it is up to us to acknowledge it
to fight it, correct it
so our children can be free

"We are all loved by someone."

Javier M.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Friends

Evelyn H.

Ann Arbor Open School
Teacher: Debra Ennis
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

The reason I drew this piece is to show that anyone and everyone can be true friends. For my piece I used colored pencils, watercolors, and a white and purple paint marker. The person who inspired me to draw this piece was my art teacher Debra Ennis. She is such a good art teacher and friend to lots of people.

"Kindness is important. Friendship is important. You are important."

Finn W.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Let Peace Begin With Me

Peggy Leonard

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

My work represents a dove of peace filled with pattern. The black and white patterns serve to contrast the turbulent and troubling times in our world. The dove is shown to represent that we all have a role in creating peace around us. The song, Let There Be Peace on Earth, and its verse, inspired me in creating this work. The dove is illustrated as flying from the darkness into a rainbow of colors representing unity and love. Each day we must search for the positive things in our lives and keep our sights on those things. Within the pattern of the dove is the word “PEACE”. It’s repeated 7 times throughout the design. Research shows that if we hear or see something 5-7 times, it’s transfers from short-term to long-term memory. Hopefully my work will serve to inspire each person to find peace in their own lives and to work to find peace in our communities.
 

"Keep Dreming and Don't let anyone take your dreams from you"

Sofia S.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Friends

Lorinda Skunda

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

"Art is a minister gifted from God"

Terrance W. Hinton


Ypsilanti, Michigan

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STOP

Kiza M.

11th Grade, Ypsilanti Community High School
Teacher: Lorinda Skunda
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

My artwork talks about no school shootings and I used colored pencils.

How do you feel about it? I feel bad because other parents do not want to hear that something happened to their kids.

"When we are mad, we think we are not friends; but love is bigger and remains."

Hiram E.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Untitled

Thylicia Babumba

10th, Ann Arbor Huron
Teacher: Anthony Stewart
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

Thylicia Babumba is currently a 10th grader at Huron High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She enjoys learning about the people and history of the world before her and after her and how it impacts her today. She is a participant member of the Girls Group and volunteers at Uganda Community of Michigan.

The art piece is about envisioning a future for African Americans without the binds of society. A time when being is so liberating to mind and soul. Weaving Afrofuturism, Spirituality, and the dynamics of African American Men and Women, to explore the achievable.

Using oil pastels wanting to give the illusion that what you see in front of you is a concept. This piece reflects the ideas of inclusiveness

"Keep chasing those dreams.The time I hold on to you, you can carry me.. When you hold on to me, I will carry you."

Natalie H

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Through Peace And Love We Unite

Juliet H.

2nd grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Laura Wayne
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

My picture shows different hands embracing love and peace.

"I want peace. I want love. I want kindness."

Marcos C.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Be Weird

Nora K.

4th Grade, King Elementary
Teacher: Ms. Wayne
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

I made this because people always want to fit in with the crowd, but they don’t need to they can just embrace themselves and be themselves. Being weird and being yourself is cool

"No one should be made fun of for the way they look."

Avery B.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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The Feminists

Azalea W.

4th Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Laura Wayne
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

I created this piece to show women coming together for equality and against discrimination because of their gender.

"Follow your dreams and don’t give up."

Iori N

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Celebration

V.

4th Grade, Holmes STEAM Elementary
Teacher: Isaac Tapley
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

"If we were all the same nothing would be different"

Madison N.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Spots of Kindness

3rd Grade Class, Lawton Elementary School & Early Fives, Lawton Elementary School

3rd Grade and Early Fives, Lawton Elementary School
Teacher: Delaney Dodge
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

This work was created by students in Ms. Dodge’s 3rd grade class and Ms. Flynn’s Young Five’s class at Lawton Elementary School in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The two classes are Reading Buddies and come together for weekly collaborative projects.

This art was inspired by the book, A Little Spot of Kindness by Diane Alber. In class, students followed Spot on his journey to show kindness. Students each made a dot to represent themselves and to serve as a reminder to always be kind. Students made the connection between their “Spot” of kindness and how being helpful and kind can help overcome discrimination and injustice in the world. Students were asked, what will your “Spot” of kindness inspire you to do?

“My spot of kindness inspires me to encourage people to reach for their goals.”
“My spot of kindness inspires me to help if someone is getting bullied.”
“My spot of kindness inspires me to help when someone gets treated unfairly.”

Together, we can make the world a better place.

"Love is like an invisible thread connecting us all."

Felix W.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Stuck In Your Mind

Lydia H.

4th Grade, Ypsilanti International Elementary School
Teacher: Gary Quann
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

The reason I chose this piece is because I often find myself stuck in my mind. One side represents bad thoughts and the other side represents good thoughts and, in the end, she realizes she is human and she is good enough.

"If you get bullied, don’t fight back. Instead show love. They need it."

Alison C.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Woven Together

3rd Grade Class

3rd Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Allison Wier
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

Students in Ms. Wier’s 3rd grade class at King Elementary School in Ann Arbor, Michigan created this artwork.

It’s inspired by the book, Drawn Together by Minh Le. This book is about a Vietnamese grandfather and his American grandson who don’t speak the same language, however, they both love to draw and find a whole new way to communicate.

In class, each student designed a strip of paper that described themselves. Students then wove their papers together to create this unique weaving. Here is what students said about the story and their work:

“If you can’t talk to someone, try to show it.”
“It was sweet and reminded me of my grandpa!”
“To me it means you can talk with drawings.”
“It is hard when you don’t know a family member’s language.”
“To me, it means that there’s more than one way of communicating.”
“Drawing connects people.”
“Art is a language in itself.”

We are each different but when we come together, we create a unique community. This work illustrates how art can connect us all.”

"We are all different and that’s ok."

Rolan L.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Cultural Diversity Flower Garden

Karen Kelsey

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

“Diversity – Like a beautiful garden, we’re all different.

Explaining My Art: As an artist, I studied fashion illustration years ago. I love working with color and mixed mediums, such as acrylics, watercolors, oil paints, colored pencils, and markers.

Creative Process: I centered my painting collage on different cultures and fashions because I wanted to try something different. I love the variety of cultures and the clothes worn.

What The Theme Means To Me: Our country is a melting pot of diversity and we should value, respect and celebrate different cultures and cultural expressions.”

"Diversity is like a garden we all stand out"

Nora K.

4th grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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The Mess of Our Consumerism

Renia K.

12th Grade, Greenhills School
Teacher: Nicole Burroughs
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

As part of my multifaceted identity, I am both an artist and an environmental advocate. “The Mess of Our Consumerism” exhibits this intersection. I use the aesthetic contrast of waste and nature to express the negative impact of fast fashion on the environment. Oftentimes we do not realize the impact of the waste we produce or where it ends up after we are done with it. But it is in coming together, acknowledging our responsibility to reduce our impact on the environment, that the detrimental effects of overconsumption and climate change can be mediated. It takes bravery to stand up for what you believe in, and this painting presents a visualization of overconsumption that can spark action. “The Mess of Our Consumerism” is my passionate hope for a future for all, where we care for the earth we live on.

"If something is not created be the creator"

Emerson O.

4th grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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School Boys at the Detroit Institute of Art

Neal Weinberg

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

Friendship is blind to skin color and ethnicity. These schoolboys were waiting to start their viewing of the James Barnor exhibition at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Barnor is a well known Ghanian photographer. They had a friendly but slightly guarded relationship with each other and they seemed a bit apprehensive, yet excited, about entering the exhibition. School friendships are certainly unique, and these boys demonstrate that.

My street photography attempts to show our humanity in its most positive form. We are all different and we relate to our environment differently. But we are connected in so many ways and in the end, we are more similar than different.

Occasionally, there are elements of our surroundings that need to be captured and displayed in hopes of leading to change and I will photograph these scenes and people when they present themselves.

My goal is to show humanity as it affects me in hopes that it will touch others as well.

"We can be happy. We can be sad. But we all have love that connects us."

Jay Y.

4th Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Free?

Kaila Greatness Price

Farmington Hills, Michigan

Artist Statement

“Self-awareness and self-acceptance as a Black American woman come from understanding the indestructible spirit of our origins. Free? exemplifies this by portraying five generations of my family (four generations of maternal lineage), each face representing a different era. From ascending to descending order, the work honors the past and present. From right to left, the faces include my great-great-grandmother Mary Ellen, my great-grandmother Freddie Lee, my grandmother Edna, my mother Karla, and finally, descending to infant me.

Each face carries the weight of history, resilience, and hope. Together, they symbolize the transgressions of time, and the dreams passed down through generations.

This digital photo collage and painting serves as a powerful reminder to the Black community to honor where we came from and celebrate the ancestors who paved the way for our existence.

Ultimately, ‘Free?’ reflects the sentiment: “We come from ancestors of greatness; we must live to honor them.”””

""

Theodore F

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Love Is Not A Crime

Charlotte N.

8th Grade, Scarlett Middle School
Teacher: Caitlin Huff
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

My artwork is about LGBTQ+. This is an important issue because I want people to feel safe to be who they are and should not be ashamed for loving someone. To create this art piece first I sketched the layout of the hearts and words, then I painted it with water color. I really like how my art piece has so much color. Something I would do differently next time is do the words with sharpie because the paint smudged and made the red look bad.

"A small love could turn into any big love."

Jun P.

3rd Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Celebrate You

Autumn T.

8th Grade, Scarlett Middle School
Teacher: Caitlin Huff
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

My artwork is about celebrating diversity. This is an important issue because there is difficulty in accepting diversity. To create this art piece first I made my draft and then sketched it out of the final paper. Then I added the outline, next, I added the watercolor, and finally colored pencils and small details. I really like how my art piece shows the emotions of the characters nicely and how the colors work well together. Something I would do differently next time is make the background lighter and do it first instead of last.

""

Kotone K.

4th Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Bad Thoughts

Khourtnie M.

8th Grade, Scarlett Middle School
Teacher: Caitlin Huff
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

My artwork is about Mental health. This is an important issue because one of I have friends and family with depression. To create this art piece first I sketched it out, then I put it on the big piece of paper and chose what color I should use . I don’t really like my art piece because it is simple. Something I would do differently next time is add details!

"Stand up for yourself in case no one else does."

Grace N.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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My Daddy Changes the World

Thomas Robertson

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

My artistic mindset is predominantly positive black cultural representational images, with a spiritual (Christian) component. My guiding motivation is to not “bury” my God given “talent”! I choose and love themes and subject matter that I find interesting and thought provoking. My artistic training (some formal) has been lots of practice, failures, successes, patience, and determination. I use a host of multimedia processes including traditional and digital techniques. My submission “My Daddy Changed The World” was a quote from George Floyd’s daughter after the death of her “daddy”. Thank you for this opportunity!

"Life is a book YOU write, not someone else."

Henry C.

3rd Grade, Lakewood Elementary School
Teacher: Erin McKillen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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One Bond

Terrance W Hinton

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

One Bond causes other bondage to break!

"Sometimes the smallest thought or deed can turn into a beautiful friendship"

Alicia G.

4th grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Unity in Diversity

Ember Henderson

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

“For over 30 years, I have explored various forms of artistic expression, engaging with different media to communicate my experiences and emotions. Currently a student at Maharishi International University (MIU), my practice is enriched by my love for nature, meditation, and the exploration of consciousness.

My art draws inspiration from concepts such as chakras and shadow work, exploring themes of unity within diversity. I believe in the power of art to transcend individual experiences, fostering a sense of connection to a larger, conscious divinity. Through my art, I aim to invite viewers to reflect on their own journeys, encouraging an exploration of inner and outer worlds. Ultimately, my goal is to create pieces that resonate with the viewer, reflecting the beauty and complexity of life’s shared experiences.”

"Even in the pure darkness you can find light. You just have to believe in yourself"

Oliver L.

4th Grade, King Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Ramadan Meals Among Syrian Ruins

Anonymous

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Artist Statement

Neither the war nor destruction prevented the people from holding a community breakfast, which is an important tradition in the month of Ramadan. They were determined to revive the community breakfast amid the rubble.

"Arms can destroy lives or embrace others. Decide which to use."

Sandy Chase


Bradenton, Florida

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Give Boys Their Flowers

Shalina Mitchell

Portsmouth, Virginia

Artist Statement

I navigate the affecting landscape of vulnerability in boys, acknowledging the profound strength that emerges when authenticity is allowed to flourish. I endeavor to contribute to the cultivation of a society that extends recognition and appreciation to boys, offering them the metaphorical ‘flowers’ they rightfully deserve. By challenging stereotypes and celebrating individuality, this aims to be a catalyst for change, fostering an environment where differences are embraced, and the unique essence of each boy is celebrated as a vital contribution to the diverse tapestry of humanity.

 

"Every day presents an opportunity to gift someone an unexpected bouquet of kindness."

Iris Leona Marie Cross


Tunapuna, Trinidad and Tobago

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Do Not Remove This Book

Debra Campbell

Tampa, Florida

Artist Statement

It is the rare moment that an image appears right in front of you that exactly captures a critical issue. Then, if you have the presence of mind to shake off your amazement and act, you take that photo. When I was young, there were signs in my public library (which I visited frequently) that stated, “Do Not Remove This Book.” It meant that they were protecting that book. It was a valuable book, or they only had one copy. Now, that label has a harsher meaning. It cries out, “You cannot learn about diverse thoughts. You cannot learn about ugly truths or beautiful ideals.” The book is no longer being protected. We are being protected from knowledge.

 

"A banned book is the rejection of every person who relates to the story."

Maria Spelleri


Sarasota, Florida

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Colors Matter

Alexander Kupfer

Germany, Bonn

Artist Statement

Colors Matter is a homage to Ruby Bridges and her famous 1960 walks to school which paved the way to end racial segregation in the US educational system. It is also inspired by Norman Rockwell’s painting The Problem We All Live With (1964). The title, however, is taken from recent horrors which show that even today there are still miles to go. In this case, however, the focus is moved to a wider perspective, celebrating not just the hope for the end of racial discrimination but also hinting that we cannot afford diversity to become an endangered species in a world that is increasingly dominated by mainstream culture. The picture belongs to my series Mousographs which follows the concepts of minimal art and graffiti. 

To view more artwork by Alexander Kupfer from his mousographs series, visit his website: https://www.mousographs.com/

"I stand against hatred with love, prejudice with acceptance, and ignorance with knowledge."

Md. Faisal Arefin


Rajshahi, Bangladesh

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Are My Roots Showing?

Sylvia T.

11th, Wycombe Abbey Ascot, United Kingdom

Artist Statement

My work explores the hardships of the female experience and the many forms it can take. I choose to create pieces investigating issues I am passionate about; they are universal problems that I want to represent through painting and printmaking. In my works, I am influenced by Latin- American artists and sculptors in combination with the influence of living in London and seeing so many creatives at work daily.

 

"Don't include me because of what I have, include me for who I am."

Peilin L.

7th Grade, Pine View School
Teacher: Susy Grandusky
Osprey, Florida

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Championship

Mikhail Kapychka

Mogilev, Belarus

Artist Statement

A young girl at the international swimming championship among athletes with disabilities. A second before the start in Minsk, Belarus.

 

"A disability is the ability to be special."

Lachlan Hodge

7th Grade, Sarasota Middle School
Teacher: Colleen Joiner
Sarasota, Florida, Michigan

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Me, Myself, and I

Leung Wing Yan Janet

Taichung, Taiwan

Artist Statement

My art explores self-acceptance and diverse human experiences through portraiture. Guided by the belief that eyes reveal the soul, I capture individuals’ portraits, witnessing their personal journeys. In my latest oil painting, I depict the transformative passage from self-loathing to self-acceptance. The left side portrays the struggle for true desires and authentic identity, represented by black, white, and blue tones symbolizing emptiness and despair. Moving towards the center, a confident figure emerges, embracing their unique identity. Vibrant colors and makeup symbolize inner liberation and self-expression, while a genuine smile reflects the joy of self-acceptance. Universal connectivity is depicted through stars below, while the rainbow sky above signifies acceptance and celebration of individuality. The transition from darkness to vibrant beauty is mirrored in the caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly. Through my art, I aim to inspire viewers to embrace their uniqueness, embark on self-discovery, and find daily happiness.

 

"Be yourself. Be unique. Be you."

Elise M.

8th Grade, Rowlett Middle Academy
Teacher: Brittany Braniger
Bradenton, Florida

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Yearning to Breathe Free

Wayne Ramirez

Venice, Florida

Artist Statement

While this image of the child with tear filled eyes is a product of my imagination, she represents the reality of what thousands of migrant children confront at the United States and Mexican borders. There is a humanitarian and moral disconnect between the worlds that embodies the national spirit and conscience: give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free (excerpt from the 1903 inscription on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty); and the continued dysfunction of our immigration and asylum system. As an increasingly polarized Congress continues to avoid approving humane legislative immigration reform, a child with pleading outstretched hands reaches through a barbed wire fence as to ask “what about the children yearning to breathe free?”

 

"If we cherish freedom, why do we separate ourselves from others with barbed wire fences?"

Wayne Ramirez


Venice, Florida

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Children Raised by the Same Earth

Sofia H.

9th, SFK International Art Education
Teacher: Ruilin Meng & Amanda Meng
Beijing, China

Artist Statement

There is an old saying in China called “fifty-six nationalities, fifty-six flowers, fifty-six brothers and sisters are one family.” My country has so many cultures and so much inclusiveness. I grew up in this environment. In my opinion every country, race, and person in the world is also many different flowers. These flowers can be the same family. I used flowers as the elements of my creation. I made these flowers grow from one root and I added several representative races with their national flowers. I also wanted to include people with disabilities, so I drew a beautiful girl with a prosthetic leg in the bottom left corner.

 

"You are not extra. You are not ordinary. You are extraordinary."

Robert A.

7th Grade, Pine View School
Teacher: Susy Grandusky
Osprey, Florida

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Friendship

Matheesha Nawangi G.

12th, Visakha Vidyalaya Colombo, Sri Lanka

Artist Statement

Even though we live in the 21st century, we still see conflicts between people of different races. In my art, I showed the friendship between a Black person and a white person from their childhood to old age. So, if we live without comparing people by their outside appearance, we would be able to make a beautiful, happy society.

 

"I choose to walk beside you. I choose to hear your story."

Kimberly Howard


Bloomington, Indiana

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