MOULTRIE – For young people, participating in an artistic showcase is not just a way to demonstrate their talents, but also an opportunity to explore and share their emotions, ideas, and culture. An event that will celebrate these talents is the “Artistic Showcase”, which will be held Saturday, February 22, starting at 10 a.m., at the Colquitt County Arts Center.

This showcase brings together a wide array of art forms, including oratorical speech, visual arts, and interpretive dance. It will be a platform for youth to engage with their peers, families, and communities.

The showcase gives young participants the chance to express themselves through speeches or storytelling. Public speaking enables youth to articulate their thoughts and emotions. Topics of oration can vary from personal stories of struggle and triumph to broader themes like justice, equality, or hope. The emphasis on voice, delivery, and content helps young people hone their communication skills.

Visual arts is another part of the showcase. It allows participants to convey their inner thoughts and emotions in a tangible form. Whether through painting, drawing, sculpture, or photography, visual art provides a canvas for creativity. Young artists can incorporate themes that are personal like identity, mental health, or social justice.

Also, in the showcase, young dancers can tell stories and communicate emotions through an interpretive dance performance. They can draw inspiration from music, literature, or social issues. So, it will be a way for the participants to express their identity, explore cultural traditions, or comment on societal issues like inclusivity, freedom, or resilience. The physical nature of dance enables the participants to explore concepts such as space, time, and dynamics.

The “Artistic Showcase” will combine oratorical speech, visual arts, and interpretive dance to create a dynamic space where different forms of expression intersect and enrich one another. It offers an opportunity to experience art from multiple perspectives. It gives youth the chance to reflect on issues through various lenses—whether it’s through the spoken word, visual representation, or the power of movement.

All art submissions must include a photo of the art included in the showcase with registration. Also, include music used for an interpretive dance submission with the registration.

This is the second year the Colquitt County Chapter of the NAACP has partnered with the Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority and The Women’s Federated Club of Moultrie. The partnership this year has expanded to include the Colquitt County School District and The Arts Center of Moultrie.

Any students interested in participating should send a registration form to connie.fritz@mccpra.com. Find registration forms online at MCCPRA.com or by calling Connie Fritz at (229) 668-0028.

The registration deadline is February 14. First Prize will be $150 and a medallion, Second Prize will be $100 and a trophy and Third Prize will be $50 and a ribbon. Prizes will be awarded in two grade groups, 6th-8th and 9th-12th.