STUDENT ARTS EDUCATION SHOWCASED

More than 40 pieces of artwork from Saskatchewan students are being showcased in the fifth annual exhibit sponsored by the Saskatchewan Society for Education through Art (SSEA) and Saskatchewan Learning.

This art exhibit opened today at the University of Regina's Education Building to celebrate May is Art Education Month. Each student received a Certificate of Recognition from Saskatchewan Learning and the SSEA as well as a congratulatory message from the Premier.

"These students should be very proud of their creative and artistic skills. This exhibit illustrates the exceptional talent our students have. These students may choose a future career in art and continue to expand their skills as part of Saskatchewan's vibrant and essential arts culture," Learning Minister Andrew Thomson said.

"Teachers in Saskatchewan consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have the support of the Department of Learning which have made a conscious decision to include the arts in the Core Curriculum that we deliver to our students. This exhibit is a tribute to the efforts teachers put into their jobs and learning about the visual arts because what you will see in this exhibit is just a snapshot of a much bigger picture," SSEA Provincial President Grier Swerhone said.

The SSEA asked all schools to provide artwork to be selected for this collection. Students whose art is on display are from the following communities: Chaplin, Lloydminster, Regina, Saskatoon, Kyle, Endeavour, Leask, Maple Creek, Lemberg, Outlook and Rockglen.

Research indicates that students involved with the arts have higher self-esteem, higher grades, good attendance at school and are more involved in community and leadership activities.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306)787-5609 Cell: (306)535-2261

Kathy Hancock Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-1305