30 Jun 2022 A colorful camp

Budding artists were all smiles at the Summer Art Camp hosted by Youth Advocates Resource Network (YARN) in mid-June at their center in Mayflower. 

Founded in 1985 by Berthenia Gill, the nonprofit hosted international artist Alice Aida Ayers. Twenty-five youth, ages 5 through 18, participated in separate sessions, each receiving age-appropriate instruction and personalized attention from Ayers. 

Ayers is based in El Paso, Texas, but has lived throughout the U.S. and in a few African countries. She holds degrees in fine art, design and art education and has exhibited work in America, Europe, Mexico and several countries in Africa. As a teaching artist, she has conducted residencies in more than 250 schools, colleges and community centers and has painted over 20 public murals. During the camp, the group painted a mural that depicts people visiting national monuments and historical places. 

“It was exceptional!” Gill said, smiling. “The 25 children of all colors left with a feeling of belonging.”  In the past 37 years, Gill has organized trips for children and youth that took them to historical and national landmarks in the U.S. The community leader wanted to see kids in Faulkner County dream bigger. 

The Summer Art Camp was sponsored by YARN, Ayers, Centennial Bank, First Security Bank, Bank OZK, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, Simmons Bank, Conway Copies, Hearne Fine Art, C&V 4 Seasons Publishing, and Buff Blass.