Young artists are showcasing their art work this month at U.S. Cellular stores across the city. These artists are celebrating Black History Month and learning.
Participants from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee submitted portraits and community members are vote on them. The top three finalists will win cash prizes from U.S. Cellular.
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
“This contest really gave us a chance to challenge our youth with a contest, while celebrating the richness of African-American culture,” said Scott Hanson, U.S Cellular retail area sales manager.
During January, participating Boys & Girls Clubs members were encouraged to do research and learn more about African-American figures.
“What we are doing here is showcasing the future,” said Vincent Lyles, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs. “We are giving our kids the chance to show their work, get inspired and inspire others.”
Xzavier, who attends Rogers Street Academy, said he chose to draw Malcolm X because he inspired people and showed that anyone can stand up for oneself. Lamarr, a 13-year-old student attending Doerfler School, drew a picture of former President Barack Obama. The most difficult part of his drawing, he said, was learning how to do the shading. Other students drew Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Mayor Tom Barrett attended the kick-off and cast the first vote. Barrett joked that voting for the best portrait was much better than a government election because voters aren’t plagued by unwanted TV commercials.
“Every election is actually the most important election we have, because every election is about the future. Right here you see the future of Milwaukee,” said Barrett. “With Xzavier and Lamarr you see two young men who are trying very, very hard and who are obviously great artists.”
For more on the contest, visit Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.
