Research recognizes the positive benefits and importance of youth involvement in the arts. These beneficial influences include: social interaction, physical development, cognitive development, imagination, creativity and problem solving skills (Barton, 2015). However, throughout the years, schools have experienced budget cuts in programs related to the arts. Data also shows students that participate in school art programs have higher test scores and higher graduation rates than those who do not participate. Although, Clay County Public Schools do provide some art programs, youth in the community also take advantage of 4-H art programs offered at the local Extension Office.

Each month 4-H grab and go programs related to art were offered and Art Day Camps were hosted throughout the summer. 4-Hers worked on a variety of projects such as mosaics, abstract paintings, clay sculptures, drawings and more.  Including grab and go programs and in-person art club meetings, forty-four youth participated in art projects. Over fifty projects were submitted for the 4-H Project Showcase and many were entered for the Kentucky State Fair.

 Evaluation Results—

 95% reported learning a new skill

80% reported entering a project for the first time

 4-H Parent comment: “This has been the best thing for my child this summer. She has made many new friends and has learned so many new skills.”