Spark

December 1, 2021

Elke Mussig Contreras, We Are One, colored pencil on paper, Saguaro High School

In partnership with the Scottsdale Sister Cities Association and Scottsdale Artists’ School, Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation brings its first online exhibition of student artwork from local Scottsdale schools. The exhibition, entitled One World: Out of Many, We Are One, highlights work from nearly 40 youth from schools in Scottsdale. This year’s theme asks students to explore creative ways that we create peace through people-to-people interaction and to think about the ways different nations come together during a time of physical separation.

Yuna Horie, No Matter How We Are Different, collage, Coronado High School

“We all are experiencing the same crisis right now, and it brings to mind how, in this world, we are many, and we are one,” says Brittany Arnold, teen and family coordinator for Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation and project lead for the online exhibition. “The online format was created out of necessity due to closures and social distancing measures, but it truly demonstrates the essence of allowing the exhibition to be fully accessible around the world, without barriers.” 

Building bridges of international understanding and goodwill, members of the Scottsdale Sister Cities Association (SSCA) serve as citizen ambassadors, creating networks and partnerships with eight sister cities around the world. Through student programs and educational, cultural, and business exchanges, SSCA aims to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation—one individual, one community at a time. 

Kessa Maestra Naji, Unity of Culture, acrylic on canvas board, Saguaro High School

The SSCA Young Artists and Authors Showcase encourages teens to express this mission through original artwork and literature. Scottsdale students are invited to interpret an annual theme and compete in the local showcase. Participating artists and award winners are celebrated through this exhibition, with the First Place winner advancing to the international competition in Washington, D.C. Winning entries at the international level are displayed at the Sister Cities International Conference and travel in a yearlong tour throughout the United States.

When experiencing the virtual exhibition, make sure to scroll all the way down the page to see all the included artworks. Click on individual artworks to view them at full-screen size and to read the artist statements.