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Art Tag: 2026

Peace in My Heart

Lily C

4th, Logan Elementary School, Ann Arboor
Teacher: Becky Hall
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

This painting is a picture that many different people combined their fingers to the ‘Peace’ sign. This picture is telling that all people are in peace, and love.

"We are more than a million , we are one ."

Helen F.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Self Reflection

Mikaela W

11th, Pioneer High School, Ann Arbor
Teacher: Maribeth Sonsara
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

Self Reflections peers into my identity and self expression through my hair styles over time. This warm and nostalgic piece moves chronologically from left to right. A younger me, with my voluminous Afro, is standing next to a slightly older me, with my tighter coils. Finally, I find my self-expression after taking the huge risk of cutting my hair for the first time in my life. Shedding those 12 inches of hair, I emerge, self-confident and mature, with my short cropped curls. In this brightly colored digital painting, I have attempted to collapse time into a single snapshot- the three versions of myself radiating joy and self love. Self Reflections is a trip down memory lane, with a girl looking at herself in the mirror and liking what she sees.

"You need to find the key of mistakes and kindness to open the door of wisdom and experience."

Gloria Y.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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They Can’t Bury Us

Azalea W

5th, King Elementary School. Ann Arbor
Teacher: Laura Wayne
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

I wanted to make this piece to show how women can not be held back and how they rise up against adversity. I used flowers to represent women because they are often seen as delicate and frail. But them breaking through the concrete shows they are strong, and can rise up through even the hardest conditions.

"Hate may be strong but love is stronger."

Charlotte C.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Our Language is Friendship

Musa W

2nd, King Elementary School, Ann Arbor
Teacher: Stephanie Gooel
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

Collaboration with Miu Tanaka, second grade at King Elementary in Ms. Gooel’s class.

We don’t speak the same language, but we have learned to understand each other by reading facial expressions and body language, and by becoming in-tune with each other’s moods and feelings. We find and celebrate the things that connect us.

Our piece honors our special bond, and how friendship and kindness are bigger than the language barrier that divides us. The Japanese writing on the left translates to, “Even if our languages are different, a hug makes our hearts one.” Hugging is not the cultural norm in Japan, but one of our first moments of connection was through a hug. Now we hug all the time!

私たちは同じ言語を話しませんが、表情やボディランゲージを読み取り、お互いの気分や感情を感じ取ることで、理解し合えるようになりました。そして、私たちをつないでいるこの絆を大切にしています。

この作品は、私たちの特別な絆、そして友情や思いやりが、言葉という壁を越えることを表しています。Hugは日本では一般的な文化ではありませんが、私たちが初めて心を通わせた瞬間のひとつが、Hugでした。今では、私たちはいつもHugをしています。

"Love is being nice to everybody. -"

Messiah R.

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

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Mantenga la Cultura

Caitlin D

11th, Jones Community High School, Ann Arbor
Teacher: Beth Portincassa
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

This piece honors my heritage and ancestry. My mother is a Black Panamanian immigrant, my grandmother (abuela) is Asian Panamanian, and I am a white Panamanian American. Though we differ in skin tone, hair texture, and physical features, we share a culture, language, and deep familial love that spans generations.

In this work, I portray three women resembling my abuela, my mother, and myself, each wearing a version of the pollera, Panama’s traditional dress worn in festivals and dances. Surrounding them are symbols of my culture — traditional foods, religious and spiritual icons, music, the ocean, and the Panamanian flag.

Through this artwork, I celebrate the beauty, diversity, and enduring love within my family and heritage.

"Love your neighbor. Ama a tu prójimo"

Melody T.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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World is Peace

Lori K

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

Artist Statement

I first thought about what this picture would be like in the future. This earth peace symbol was thought of by my friend. At first the person in this picture was one whole person, but the assignment was about differences, so I cut the person in the picture in half to create a unification of peace

"The world should be a place of peace and freedom where everyone exists happily. -"

Amir O.

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

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Immigrants Built This Country

Yunice A

8th, Scarlett Middle School, Ann Arbor
Teacher: Saina Sajjad
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

My artwork is about ICE. This is an important issue to me because my family has had to go through the immigration system, and it makes me really sad to know that people leave their country to better their lives or to stay away from violence back home. It is also scary to think about how much fear and uncertainty many families live with while trying to stay safe.

To create this art piece, first I found a drawing of people on Google and used that picture to line up my figures. Then I searched up some flags to put in the background underneath the words “Immigrants built this country.”

This country was built by immigrants and by enslaved Africans who were forced to come here. Both groups helped shape America, even though their journeys were very different.”

"Why be mean to people who are different, when we're basically the same."

Justus A.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Have Respect, Love, & Peace

Ella B

3rd, King Elementary School, Ann Arbor
Teacher: Laura Wayne
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

I chose this message because of an affirmation song sung by snoop dog. I then thought of a lotus flower so i combined my ideas together, but I wanted more, and wanted to address racism, so I drew 2 hands, one white, one black, holding (peace) the Lotus Flower

"Be kind to others."

Henry E.

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

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WASHTENAW COUNTY BICENTENNIAL

Washtenaw County, Michigan

Artist Statement

Long before county lines or survey grids, this land was organized through Indigenous systems of movements and memory. Trails connected villages, rivers, and burial grounds marking their ancestral presence. The arrival of colonists did not simply introduce a new population, but it also meant theft and robbery. Through treaties such as the 1807 Treaty of Detroit, vast stretches of southeast Michigan were transferred to the U.S. government and became federally controlled. This cleared the way for surveys, speculation, public schools, and colonial settlement. Lines were drawn, parcels named, and native homelands were reclassified as colonial property.

The creation of Washtenaw County rests on the process of Indigenous land dispossession, as Native lands were redefined through colonial law and Indigenous communities were forced to move from their ancestral homelands to make way for colonists. As we commemorate the County’s Bicentennial, we reflect on the roots of our community through the lens of Native history, recognizing both the resilience of Indigenous peoples and the enduring impacts of this history on the land we share today.

""


, Michigan

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Silence is Compliance

Sabine B

12th, Ypsilanti Community High School
Teacher: Skunda
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

We need to speak for those that can’t! There are far too many injustices happening in the world. If we say nothing, nothing may happen!

"The hardest thing to do, is a perfect thing to try."

James L

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Stop Ice

Kizza M

12th, Ypsilanti Community High School
Teacher: Skunda
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Everyone has a place. No one should be afraid just because they are (or aren’t) an immigrant.

"I want the world to be a place where everyone is positive and has dreams"

Ito U

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

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Everybody Matters

Evelyn H

3rd, Estabrook Elementary, Ypsilanti
Teacher: Stacy Schwartz
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Friendship brings us together no matter what our differences.

"Treat everybody with love and peace and the world will be a better place"

William T.

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

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Together We Win

Destiny M

5th, Holmes Steam Elementary, Ypsilanti
Teacher: Isaac Tapley
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

I wanted to show how my friends and I do not look the same. We are different colors, shapes and sizes working together to win the game of tug of war. I added band-aids to each person to show how sometimes we may hurt ourselves while having fun but we still are determined to win the game as a team.

"When other people think other things are hard, it's the perfect thing to try."

Neal B

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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The Way I Say Hello

Skylar F. Fortson R.

5th, Ypsilanti International Elementary School
Teacher: Gary Quann
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Many people come from different places and say hello in different ways. This shows that anyone can be a friend, no matter what language they speak.

"Make friends, not enemies"

Henry O.

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

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Hands of the World

Marivi G

5th, Estabrook Elementary, Ypsilanti
Teacher: Stacy Schwartz
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

It was important to me to include all different skin types in their hands and represent different cultures through language.

"In a perfect world, everyone is loved for being themselves."

Kaylee G

11th Grade, Ann Arbor Community High School
Teacher: Marcy McCormick
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Embracing Our Skin

Basil B

5th, Ypsilanti International Elementary School
Teacher: Gary Quann
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Embrace your skin because it’s yours. You wear it and play in it and walk in it. So, embrace your skin no matter what.

"Make love by treating people the same and it doesn’t matter what their skin color is. -"

Elen S.

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

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Ancestral Exhaustion

Tywree Bailey

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Ancestral Exhaustion names a tiredness that did not begin in one lifetime. It is the inherited fatigue of always having to be alert, self-protective, and self-reliant in a world that has rarely believed our pain or fully honored our humanity. This exhaustion lives in the body and in memory, shaped by generations who learned that safety was uncertain and rest was never guaranteed.
This work holds space for that truth without apology. Exhaustion here is not weakness. It is evidence of endurance, of love carried forward, of survival practiced daily. Ancestral Exhaustion asks what becomes possible if rest is no longer conditional and our humanity no longer requires defense.

"The way you persevere is the way you keep moving forward."

Collen Zhu

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Always Was, Always Been

Takeisha Jefferson

New Boston, Michigan

Artist Statement

This work holds presence as a responsibility and a truth. It names the Black body as fixed within the landscape, as fact. Set within the visual language of the American West, these figures occupy a space shaped by exclusion and mythmaking. Their placement asserts Black presence as enduring and rightful, woven into the land itself. The scale carries the weight of memory and inheritance, a history that lives in the ground. These bodies remain. Their presence is claimed through being.
The stillness of these faces carries sacred gravity. Survival is deliberate and sustained through self-knowledge and care. Identity stands as sovereign ground, complete and self-defining. By reclaiming Western iconography, the work affirms the importance of diversity by expanding who is seen, remembered, and recognized as belonging. It speaks to the discipline of standing in one’s own knowing, rooted in lineage that continues to breathe and endure.

"Black presence as enduring and rightful, woven into the land itself."

Takeisha Jefferson


New Boston, MI, Michigan

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I Have Two Nieces

Kaila Greatness Price

Farmington Hills, Michigan

Artist Statement

I have two nieces. Born two months apart.
The oldest with beautiful skin rich like onyx,
and coily textured hair that stands like a crown.

The youngest melanated beautiful light amber brown,
and hair that flows wavily down.

Both Black, both very beautiful on the Blackness spectrum from one another.
However, not one niece is more beautiful than the other.”

This piece is dedicated to Kennedy, Selene, and all Black girls with beautiful skin tones beyond and between.

Both girls represent the vast diversity of skin tones, facial features, and hair textures of Blackness. However, colorism (a byproduct of White supremacy) which refers to discrimination against people with darker skin tones while privileging those with lighter skin tones, impacts each girl differently.

Related by love, both girls are accepting and embracing one another’s differences while living within a colorist society.

With love, I encourage the Black community to do the same.

"We are all pieces in a beautiful diverse puzzle"

Marlowe G.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Henna Artist

Vrunda ( Imaan Bharsar

Canton, Michigan

Artist Statement

I’m a henna artist. I have a very small business with more than 10 years of experience. I use all organic products brought from back home that are essential oil-based. I create intricate designs, Arabic designs; for all events from wedding/birthday parties, bridal henna, festival base henna. I can create and craft in a detailed format. I also have a medical background, so I understand the chemical sensitivity and medical condition where you cannot apply a lot of harmful chemicals on your skin. Please follow my IG at VrundaVan ArtGallery to check out my work. I would be grateful to be able to participate in this event, where I can show my work to kids and adults. I would like to explore and improve my business and take to the next level and be famous as an artist.

"Love is more powerful than actions"

Oliver S.

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

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Fearless

Glen Taylor

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

This is a pinhole photo of the fantastic “Fearless Girl” by sculptor Kristen Visbal, outside of the New York Stock Exchange. When I traveled to NYC, I knew I wanted to photograph the statue, but I had in mind a different image initially — just the statue in its surroundings. But when I got on site, there was no way I was going to get a photo without people in it. So, embracing the spirit of pinhole street photography, I went with it… over the 8+ minute exposure, dozens of people sat or milled around or posed next to the statue to take their own photos, every one of them leaving an imprint this image. And what I got was a better picture than what I first had in mind, one that captures not just a frozen statue among frozen buildings, but an eight minute moving, living breath of NYC. It also reimagines Fearless Girl — with all the faceless people behind her, she becomes a brave protector against the money interests of Wall Street.

"No matter how big or small, there should be acts of justice in the world."

Sadie G

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

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Worthy

Jennifer Maples

Detroit, Michigan

Artist Statement

I express myself through art because it brings me comfort, purpose, and allows me to communicate what words often cannot. As a self-taught, emerging visual artist and muralist, my practice is deeply personal. Creating outside of traditional spaces has shaped how I work freely, using art as a tool for storytelling.Mental health advocacy is central to my work. Drawing from my own experiences, I use art for healing and self-discovery while challenging stigma. Through intentional color, texture, and form, I explore vulnerability, resilience, and growth. Using acrylics and mixed media, I balance dark and vibrant tones to reflect both struggle and strength.

As my work evolves, it increasingly centers community-engagement, especially uplifting youth. I believe art connects personal healing to collective awareness and inspires connection and advocacy.

"No matter how you look, you’re beautiful on the inside and out."

Talia S

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

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Peace

Farah Bazzi

Dearborn, Michigan

Artist Statement

This artwork spells the Arabic word Salaam, meaning “Peace” in a fusion of freestyle and Thuluth-inspired calligraphy. The flowing letters transform into the form of a dove, a universal symbol of hope and unity. Created with the intention to speak beyond language, the design represents the beauty of coexistence where cultures, faiths, and people meet at the same word the world longs to hear: Peace.In a time of global division, this piece reminds us that peace is not the absence of difference, but the harmony that comes when we embrace it. Salaam carries the warmth of home, the whisper of prayer, and the promise of understanding. Through this visual expression, I aim to show that peace is both art and action, something we can create together when we lead with compassion.

"Our world needs more love and peace"

Hudson H

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

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E Pluribus Unum

Sue Reeves

Milan, Michigan

Artist Statement

Patterns in my mind flow through my fingers to become art! I’m an artist who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder as an adult. Growing up and being forced to “fit in” certainly had its challenges within my family as well as the community in general. It left me largely misunderstood in so many ways. When I began drawing, it opened a whole new outlet of communication for me, one without projection, discrimination, or prejudice. I found that my greatest form of communication is creating art. Through painting, drawing and other forms of artistic expression I am able to communicate my thoughts and emotions in a way that feels natural and comfortable

"Find the key to open the door and go"

Fatima K

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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When Whispers

Amani Sawari

Ferndale, Michigan

Artist Statement

After founding Sawari Media in 2019, Sawari’s prisoner newsletters expanded in circulation across 44 states. Her advocacy expertise is in policy analysis and marginalized community impact. Her creative approach is grounded in the processing of second hand traumas incurred through her advocacy with the aim of illustrating the cumulative impacts of carceral punishment and environmental racism

"I want a world of hope"

Soma K

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

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Mental Health Awareness

Laura Wayne

Ypsiilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

Mental Health is overlooked and has not been considered a disease. It affects so many people who are suffering silently. I used the color of green in a monochromatic style which is symbolically for mental Health. People are screaming for help.

"Just because a key is lost does not mean there is not a spare."

Alistair H. 4th grade

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Together We Make Every Moment Matter

Elderberry Club

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

Elderberry Club is a group of women living with memory loss who are committed to living full, meaningful lives together. With the support of caring friends, we uplift one another and stay actively engaged in our community, donating our time and talents to local causes.

We believe we are not our diagnosis. We are vibrant, courageous, socially connected women who still have so much to offer. Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s words about embracing life without fear, we strive to make every moment matter.

Hand in hand, we continue to grow, laugh, contribute, and live our best lives — because we are barely elders.

"We make every moment matter."

Quote by the Elderberry Ladies


Ann Arbor, Michigan

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For Mahsa

Amanda May Moore

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Artist Statement

It is important to recognize that no one is free unless everyone is free. Our liberation is connected.

"We’re all better off when we’re all better off."

Sharon Held, Saline, Mich


Saline, Michigan

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Mindful Movements

Tylear Jefferson

New Boston, Michigan

Artist Statement

She dances where history once said no. Her presence is exact and intentional. A Black ballerina visible on this stage bends time forward. Her movement carries the girls who were told to wait, to soften, to shrink. She refuses those instructions through motion and breath. This visibility becomes a bridge, linking tradition and tomorrow, linking those once missing with those now arriving. Each turn affirms belonging. Each step writes authorship into the space. The spotlight does not define her. She reshapes what light means through her own motion.

"Keep pereserving and don’t give up until you achieve your goal."

Elena T.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Transmanian Devil

Laura Pearson

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Artist Statement

This piece is Transmanian Devil. At it’s center a Tasmanian Devil, an animal often thought of as aggressive but in reality only acts aggressive when cornered, conducting a great symphony of beautiful music. Transmanian Devil casts a great trans flag over the canvas and into the world. Spreading a great blanket of sound saying you are loved to people often treated poorly. You are loved and you are beautiful. Sing your beauty into the world.

I used Copic marker on Bristol vellum to bring Transmanian Devil to the world. I sketch everyday and I put pride flags into a lot of my work. It means a lot to me that people are protected and feel valued. I yearn for the day that we don’t have to be loud to drown out the negative vibes in the world. When everyone is accepted for who they are.

"What you see is not always what's underneath."

Yesong P

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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The Power of Love

Eda Uzunoğlu

Istanbul,   Turkey

Artist Statement

I was an art teacher for 10 years and a commercialist for four years. I have been making cartoons for three years.

"Kindness is a beam of light in the world of darkness."

Dimka Pencheva


Gabravo, Bulgaria

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Divided Game

Santiago Cornejo

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Artist Statement

This image uses the metaphor of a chessboard to expose systemic inequality. A brick wall divides the game, separating the black and white pieces. On one side, the white team is complete, with all its figures in place. On the other, the black side consists only of pawns. This visual contrast highlights deep-rooted structures of racial, social, and migratory exclusion. The wall represents both literal and symbolic barriers that limit access, opportunity, and visibility. It asks: How can we speak of fairness or inclusion when entire groups are denied equal tools and a voice? This artwork challenges us to dismantle the systems—visible and invisible—that keep the game rigged.

"Democracy will prevail where there’s common decency."

Kimberly Probus-Clark


Sarasota, Florida United States

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Unhealthy Obsessions

Cole Robert Cooper Wollack

Saline, Michigan

Artist Statement

I am an artist originally from Los Angeles, California, now based in Michigan. For the past six years, drawing has been a consistent and transformative part of my life. Through art, I have learned more about myself and discovered a powerful way to navigate life’s challenges.

My work is often abstract or surreal, exploring emotions and experiences that words cannot fully express. I create imagery that invites interpretation, allowing viewers to bring their own meaning to the work while I hold my own personal intentions within it.

Some of my pieces may contain graphic elements, reflecting the reality that life is not always “sunshine and rainbows.” However, at its core, my work stands for peace, love, and self-expression. I believe art is one of the most powerful ways we can express individuality and make a positive impact on others.

"Close the door of sadness, and open the door of happiness."

Sammy M.

4th grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Teacher: Reema Jarjoura
Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Mommy, Please Don’t Go

Wayne Ramirez

Venice, Florida United States

Artist Statement

My painting visually illustrates the profound impact of family separation and its associated trauma. Through the creative process, I painted the handcuffed mother and the sorrowful child holding hands with interlaced fingers. I purposely painted all the figures wearing some kind of combination of red, white, and blue. The doll represents the aspirations and challenges faced by individuals seeking a better life, and the often-complex realities of the American Dream. The child is painted wearing white to represent her innocence.

"Your story matters, even if it’s not like mine."

Mohammad Abedi


Mashhad, Iran

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Drawing Togetherness

Shinyu Park

10, Seoul Scholars International Art & Design Seoul, Republic of Korea

Artist Statement

This artwork features individuals who use wheelchairs, canes or other assistive devices. They come together to create a shared scene by drawing and adding color to their tools. In one part of the painting, a child scribbles on a rough, worn wall. I see this wall as a symbol of society’s uncomfortable gaze toward physical differences. The act of drawing on that wall represents the hope that these social perspectives can change. I was inspired by a childhood memory of drawing and writing messages of encouragement on a friend’s cast. Just like the warmth I felt back then, I believe discomfort doesn’t have to be hidden; rather, it can become a bridge for understanding and connection between people.

"I color outside the lines, and I still make something beautiful."

Bella Jordan

2, Andrew Jackson Elementary School
Teacher: Mrs. Lee Johnson
Hermitage, Tennessee United States

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Language Bridges Generations

Ruijun Pan

10, GinkGo ArtEdu
Teacher: Yuntong Wu
Ontario, California USA

Artist Statement

This colored pencil drawing depicts a warm scene in which a grandson whose native language is English learns to write in his grandmother’s language — traditional Chinese. The grandson writes “love” to his grandma, and she texts back on her smartphone, “My grandson, I’m proud of you!” The difference between the generations is bridged by language, learning, and their love for each other.The speech bubble reflects everyday texting, symbolizing that the grandmother is embracing technology and learning to text for her grandson. This drawing highlights the contrast between traditional communication and contemporary methods, as well as between youth and age. It shows that learning another person’s culture or language can be an act of respect. This effort not only changes the means of communication but also demonstrates how gaps can be bridged through understanding and seeing the world from another’s perspective.

"Kindness is the language we all understand, even when our stories are written in different alphabets."

Yuliya Mitskevich


Warsaw, Poland

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Silent Scream

Nikita Lila

Tortona, Italy

Artist Statement

Silent Scream portrays the invisible anguish of those battling mental illness, often dismissed or disbelieved because others have it worse. The figure lies curled in an oppressive, surreal space, surrounded by walls etched with desperate pleas that no one hears. The scratched “HELP” and chaotic marks reflect the internal storm hidden behind masks of normalcy. The ember cradled in the figure’s hands represents a fragile spark of hope, identity or resilience — a quiet defiance against despair. The open doors lead nowhere, underscoring isolation and the illusion of escape. This work invites viewers to confront what is easily overlooked: the silent suffering around us. It calls for empathy, urging us to see beyond appearances and listen to the pain that often goes unheard.

"Don't see through me; see me through."

Joanna Fox


Bradenton, Florida United States

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Shared Meals

Lena Ko

12, Young's Art Studio
Teacher: Heather Jung
La Mirada, California United States

Artist Statement

My painting explores the beauty of cultural diversity through the act of sharing a meal. I painted children from different backgrounds eating lunch together and exchanging foods from their own cultures. This moment illustrates how curiosity, kindness, and openness can spark understanding and connection. I was inspired by a childhood memory of feeling uncomfortable eating my traditional Korean lunch around friends, fearing it might seem strange or unpleasant. Instead of judgment, my friends showed curiosity, asking about my food and wanting to try it. This led to a potluck where everyone brought dishes from their own cultures. Through this, we embraced our differences and created an opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness of our traditions.

"Go talk to the person who is sitting alone; they might become your future best friend."

Phoenix Forestier

Kindergarten, Phillippi Shores Elementary School
Teacher: Jennifer Willis
Sarasota, Florida United States

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Same ____, Different Colors

Zdravko Barisic

Kragujevac, Serbia

Artist Statement

Although we have different skin colors, lifestyles, and social positions, at a basic level we are all members of the same human species. We can observe differences, but these are shaped by social constructs. It is precisely this social illusion that distinguishes us from other animals on Earth. Our identity, perspective, and values set us apart from other species and make our personalities unique. You may not like someone’s way of life, but you should respect it, as long as it does not cause physical or emotional harm.

"Respect doesn't require agreement. It only asks that we recognize each other’s humanity."

Devdaan Lobo

11, Pine View School
Teacher: Christopher Pauling
Osprey, Florida United States

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Limitless Expression

Jasmine Ueom

12, Sunny Hills High School Buena Park, California United States

Artist Statement

With so much important advocacy around racism and LGBTQ+ rights, I wanted to take a different perspective and explore another challenge people face. That led me to think about amputees and the hardships they must overcome in a society where most people have all four limbs. These experiences can affect anyone — children, adults or seniors. I chose to illustrate two children playing together, showing that their disability does not limit their joy. The piece reflects both the innocence of youth and the reality that life can change for anyone. Most importantly, it carries a message of hope: that adaptation is possible and that disadvantages do not have to define one’s life.

"A true friend inspires you to be the best version of yourself."

Nuris Fanning


Bradenton, Florida United States

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Both and Neither

Kimberley Hnanguie

11, Bishkek International School Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Artist Statement

My artwork reflects the complexities of growing up biracial. The girl in the center is surrounded by hands—some straightening her hair, some braiding it, and others painting her skin black or white—representing my personal struggles with race. These actions symbolize how society pressures mixed-race individuals to choose sides, conform to standards, or fit into a single identity. The butterflies around her serve as reminders that nothing is static and symbolize the importance of embracing the inner beauty of being different or mixed. Her tears, falling from her eyes, depict both the pain of constant judgment and the resilience required to exist as you are, illustrating the journey it takes. Through this imagery and my personal experiences, I hope to bring recognition to individuals like me and help others understand the pride and growth that come from being both and neither.

"Discrimination is never about your worth but their fear."

Queenstar Okine- Adjetey


Accra, Ghana

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The Protectors

Vagabond

London, United Kingdom

Artist Statement

My work is a celebration of ancestral wisdom, global unity, and the enduring strength of cultural identity. Drawing on the visual language of traditional textiles, sacred geometry, and indigenous portraiture, I create vibrant compositions that honor the diversity of humanity while affirming our shared planetary story. Each figure in my work represents not just a culture or continent, but a living thread in the intricate fabric of collective memory. At the heart of this work is a call to remembrance: to honor the land, listen to our elders, and recognize the sacredness of difference. The central globe cradled by the figure is a symbol of stewardship and unity, a reminder that despite our many paths, we all share one home. In a world fractured by division, my art offers a vision of humanity not as separate, but as sacredly interconnected.

"By embracing each others' cultures, we embrace our shared humanity."

Kimberly Boshears


Seminole, Florida United States

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Fractured Reflections

Diana de Avila

Sarasota, Florida United States

Artist Statement

Fractured Reflections captures the haunting duality of service and survival. An African American female veteran stands before a weathered mirror, her civilian self confronting the ghost of her younger, battle-hardened past. Cracks in the glass slightly distort her reflection, symbolizing fractured memories and the lingering impact of war. The American flag overlays the image, a reminder of duty, sacrifice, and the cost of service. Bloodied handprints, boot imprints, and splatters stain the walls—echoes of violence, resilience, and an identity forever shaped by war. Through this piece, I explore the silent battles fought long after the uniform is folded away, a testament to the courage, loss, and unbreakable spirit of women in the military.

"Great leaders unite differences, not erase them."

Valentin Dandonneau

8, Pine View School
Teacher: Wendy Hazlett
Osprey, Florida United States

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Fit for Life

Alain Schroeder

Aubel,   Belgium

Artist Statement

New York, Manhattan, 2022 USATF Masters Indoor Championships at The Armory — Richard, 95, left, wearing bib No. 819, greets his friend Vance, 92, of the Philadelphia Masters Club, wearing bib No. 309. Though they are close in age, Genzingler runs in a younger category, M90 (men 90-94). Meet the seniors defying norms in categories such as 85-89, 95-99 and even over 100. Seniors are disrupting outdated notions of aging by running, jumping and throwing themselves into competitive sports. But it’s not all about winning. Beyond personal achievement, sports provide a sense of belonging at an age when losing family and friends becomes more frequent. Social engagement helps fight loneliness and depression and benefits overall health. Deafening cheers accompany every athlete as friends congratulate one another in an emotionally charged atmosphere where every participant is a winner.

"Getting older may seem terrifying, but only the luckiest people get to experience it."

Minh Le

8, Pine View School
Teacher: Wendy Hazlett
Osprey, Florida United States

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Disconnected

Miranda Yu

9, Independence High School
Teacher: Steven Zhang
Frisco, Texas United States

Artist Statement

I created this artwork to show that, while seated side by side, a mother and her two daughters each escape into their own digital worlds. The piece reflects the silent distance technology creates. Despite sharing the same space, they experience life differently, shaped by age, identity, and emotional needs. “Embracing Our Differences” means recognizing not just visible differences, but also how we connect, feel, and communicate.

"When kindness calls, I always pick up, but hate will forever be on do not disturb."

Kayla Taylor


Sarasota, Florida United States

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A Scarf Woven From Every Unique Thread

Zhengyu Huang

11, Crean Lutheran High School
Teacher: Kate Doss
Irvine, California United States

Artist Statement

I depicted a peaceful, private moment of creation: an older person knitting a colorful scarf from threads of various hues and textures. Each ball of yarn symbolizes a distinct identity, culture, or viewpoint, interwoven harmoniously rather than uniformly. The scarf, decorated with a rainbow of patterns and colors, represents how each unique thread, despite its differences, contributes to something warm, beautiful and complete. This artwork is a call to embrace and celebrate our differences. In a society that often encourages conformity, our individuality is what makes us truly strong. Just as a scarf’s diversity of threads gives it character, society thrives when we value and respect one another’s identities.

"Together we weave the fabric of inclusion for a better society."

Carina Araujo

7, Barnesville School of Arts & Sciences
Teacher: Jamie Pearce
Barnesville, Maryland United States

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