By Jeff Shultz
Publisher/Managing Editor
April 26, 2008 01:42 am
—
This Monday residents of Pauls Valley have two opportunities to show their support of the arts.
The first occasion is the Pauls Valley Junior High Art Show. Much like the high school art show, this show will feature many talented junior high students and their art.
There is no charge to see the show at the PVJH, which will run Monday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
According to PVJH art instructor Nancy McGee, there will be around 120 pieces of art work at the show, representing a variety of mediums.
It’s important we show these young artists we support their efforts and encourage them to continue arts related studies.
According to Americans for the Arts, such activities are much more than just fun "extra" activities for kids. Participation in the arts opens up children's worlds and minds and offers them the skills they need for a bright future.
Arts programs stimulate critical thinking and inspires personal creativity for everyone, especially children, and provides a deeper cultural understanding as well as a higher appreciation for our own heritage.
And it won’t take much for you to show your support to these young, talented students. All you have to do is attend the show Monday and let them know what a great job they are doing.
After the PVJH Art Show, you can also attend the Pauls Valley Arts Council’s “Valley Idol Talent Show” at the PVHS Auditorium. The show begins at 7:30 p.m.
Now, there is a charge for this show — $5 per person — but every cent of that money will go toward the renovations of the old city hall building, which will soon be the Pauls Valley Arts and Cultural Center.
Once completed, the first floor of the Arts Center will house a fine art gallery where large and small exhibits of art will be exhibited.
Now I’ve lauded the virtues of a community arts program in this column before. But, these points bear repeating. A community arts program accomplishes a variety of goals in the community, including:
•Improving the quality of life in a community. It provides entertainment, culture, enjoyment and an added social activity for residents of all ages;
•Fosters pride in the community. Research reveals that residents in communities with a solid arts program display a greater sense of pride and ownership in their community. This was especially true in the youth and young adults of the community;
•Studies also reveal that those who attended arts programs were more active as volunteers in their community; and
•Improving the local economy. People come from far and near to see quality art exhibits, live theatre and to participate in arts related programs.
While in those communities they dine out, shop and contribute to the local economy.
I encourage everyone to get out Monday and attend both of these events. You’ll enjoy the entertainment and you’ll be supporting two worthwhile groups who are working hard to improve education and the quality of life in Pauls Valley.
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.