Since 2008, the museum has celebrated Youth Art Month by hosting a Student Art Show Competition for ages 13-18. This competition is named Talking Back, and it provides local teens the opportunity to explore the OJAC collection of art and artifacts and create their own work in response. 

In January, OJAC educators visited Junior and Senior High Schools throughout Region 14 to present five artists from the museum's collection. Students will explore the work of each artist, focusing on the process and the themes/ideas behind each piece that communicates with the work. 

Talking Back is unique because it is both created and juried by teens. Each Spring, the museums Junior Docent Corps jury and curate the show, as well as organize for prizes and an exhibit opening reception. With help from education department staff, the Junior Docents consider various criteria as they critique each piece. This is one of the most important experiences in our Junior Docents program, as the students gain valuable Visual and Critical Thinking Skills! They choose one winner for each response category and present a certificate and prizes that they have secured from local businesses. 

March is a very special time at the OJAC. Our Stasney Center for Education is a popular place for families, and the museum staff is delighted to view the collection through the eyes of our youngest visitors! 

Join us for the opening of this special exhibition of student work at 2 pm on Saturday March 9th. Awards ceremony and refreshments will take place at 2:30 pm.