is time to celebrate young artists and art enthusiasts in the Ann Arbor Area! March is Youth Art Month, an annual event intended to emphasize the importance of art education for students of all ages. The event also encourages the support of local art programs so that every young person has access to quality education. There are multiple ways to enjoy this month with your family throughout the downtown area. 

The importance of art education 

Quality arts education is vital to the growth and development of young people. The arts support social-emotional development and allow students to express themselves in safe, nurturing environments.

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Arts education has been associated with higher levels of school achievement, increased social skills, and engagement in school activities. However, continuing a thriving arts program can be challenging in the age of budget cuts. Youth Art Month in Ann Arbor is a great way to demonstrate the importance of art education while also allowing local students to show off their artistic skills!

Bring the whole family to enjoy an artistic drop-in event at the Ann Arbor Art Center and to participate in the annual Youth Art Month Art Walk. 

Youth Art Month Events 

Movable 2-D Characters & Collaborative Stop-Motion Animation Drop-In

The Ann Arbor Art Center (A2AC) is hosting a drop-in event for all community members interested in animation. According to the event page, “All ages are welcome to design, create, and animate their own unique, movable, 2D characters who will come to life in a collaborative stop-motion animation.” This event is free and open to the public (please note that children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult), although you can visit the event page to reserve your spot. All skill levels are welcome, so stop by to collaborate and create! 

Location: A2AC Gallery 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Date/Time: March 9 from 1-3pm

Youth Art Month Art Walk

Ann Arbor Public Schools have partnered with Main Street Ann Arbor to create this year’s annual Art Walk. This is an annual event that features artwork from students throughout Ann Arbor Public Schools. During the full month of March, student artwork will be proudly and prominently displayed in store windows all throughout down Ann Arbor so that families can take a leisurely stroll through downtown and enjoy the creations of area students. Look for the work of your family and friends, or simply enjoy the talent of these young local artists. Walk by all 24 participating businesses, which can be found at the event page, to enjoy masterpieces from each Ann Arbor school. 

Date/Time: Artwork will be on display throughout the month of March 

Location: Downtown Ann Arbor, beginning at A2AC at 117 W. Liberty St and ending at Gutman Gallery at 118 N 4th Ave.