“I am a Work of Art”

Every child is a work of art.

In 2017 the American Art Therapy Association, collaborating with Office of Head Start and Youth M.O.V.E. National, sent out a call for art and an invitation to young artists to show how they took these words to heart: “I am a work of art.” Gathering hundreds of submissions, we created this digital exhibition to celebrate the important role of art and creativity in mental health, wellness, and social-emotional well-being for our children, youth, and young adults.

Submissions from Pre-K and Elementary School Students || Submissions from Middle and High School Students

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The young artists whose work is shown here agreed to participate in this online exhibit, #IAmAWorkOfArt.

Rana, "My Favorite thing to do at school is play with blocks and toys"

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You are 18 years or older.

You confirm that you have written your submission yourself.

You give AATA permission to use your submission or any portion of it for current or future AATA fundraising, advocacy, or media outreach projects, including possibly sharing your words with a variety of audiences, media, or publications.

If we decide to share your story, your statements will appear along with your first name, the first letter of your last name, your city, and your state. If we want to share additional information we will contact you.

You give AATA permission to contact you for further authorization or if we have any questions about your submission or this authorization.

In sharing your story, please keep in mind that your story — including your name if you provide it — may appear in public advocacy projects. Even if you do not provide your name, keep in mind that some information can reveal who you are, such as unusual details about you or others.