The Clarke County School District announces its annual CCSD Youth Art Month Art Exhibition — showcasing the creativity and talent of youth artists from all grade levels across the district — along with a second exhibition specifically showcasing the work of students from Cedar Shoals and Clarke Central high schools.

Youth Art Month is a national observance in March that celebrates the importance of art education and encourages the creative expression of young people. CCSD’s annual Youth Art Month Exhibition is now open and will run through March 31 at the Lamar Dodd School of Art at the University of Georgia, 270 River Rd., Athens. A reception honoring the student-artists who contributed to the exhibition and their teachers is planned for 1-3 p.m. March 24 at the School of Art.

Normal Dodd gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Click here for more information, including directions and parking information.

"This exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for the community to see the incredible talent and creativity of our young artists," said Dan Smith, CCSD Fine Arts, Health, and PE Curriculum Coordinator. "We're thrilled to provide a platform for these students to showcase their work and inspire others to appreciate and support the arts."

CCSD also marks this month with its second annual high school student art exhibition hosted by the Athens Institute for Contemporary Art (ATHICA). Titled “Confluence 2: Eastside & Westside,” this pop-up exhibition will be open from March 21-27 at the ATHICA gallery, 675 Pulaski St. Suite 1200, Athens. An opening reception is planned from 5-7 p.m. March 23 at the gallery. Gallery hours for the exhibition are as follows:

• Thursday, March 21 – 4-8 p.m.

• Friday, March 22 – 4-6 p.m.

• Saturday March 23 – 5-7 p.m. (reception)

• Sunday March 24 – 1-6 p.m.

• Wednesday, March 27 – 4-6 p.m. 

Both events are designed to engage visitors of all ages, highlight the achievements of students and teachers, and provide an interactive and educational experience.

"We want to create an immersive and inspiring environment that encourages visitors to connect with the artwork and the artists themselves," said Smith. "We hope that these exhibitions will foster a greater appreciation for the arts and inspire our youth to continue pursuing their creative passions."