Tequesta, FL (May 9, 2008) Over 1000 enthusiasts viewed award winning artwork from over 500 students during the two day opening of the 38th Annual K-12 Community Student Exhibition held at The Lighthouse Center for the Arts. Artists, their families, teachers and the community came to honor the students at evening receptions on May 7 th and 8 th.

"Every piece of art submitted to this exhibition is a winner," noted Sonya Davis, Executive Director. "The works are selected from the entire body of art produced at each school throughout the year. The art instructors select the very best from each grade to be hung in our galleries."

The exhibition celebrates the future of the arts in our community and is an opportunity to show support for young emerging artists. The works are submitted from public and private school K-12 students from Palm Beach and Martin Counties and will be on display until May 30 th.

Awards were given to the young artists for works which stand out even in this premier group. The Jupiter-Tequesta Junior Women's Club, the Lighthouse Center for the Arts, and community minded individuals bestowed 47 awards for individual and group efforts.

This spirited exhibition is comprised of individual and group projects in all mediums including painting, drawing, clay, photography, printmaking, mural painting and more. The exhibition is a striking testament to the talent and diversity of area students, and signifies an exciting gateway for those hoping for a fulfilling career in the arts.

For many student artists, this show is their first opportunity to connect with an audience outside the classroom. This exhibition offers school aged students the experience of preparing for and participating in a professional setting, recognizes and awards students for excellence and provides an opportunity for students, instructors, and peers to view the year's accomplishments.

During the summer young artists can expand their skills and explore different cultures during the ART Olympics summer camp. The School of Art at the Lighthouse Center for the Arts offers a nine week summer camp program for students 4-12 and internship opportunities for older students from June 9 to August 15.

This annual K-12 exhibition is made possible in part by the generous donation and participation of the Jupiter Tequesta Junior Women's Club. The exhibition runs from May 7-30 at the Lighthouse Center for the Arts, located at 373 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, FL, is open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:30 pm and will be closed Saturdays for the summer starting May 24 th. The public is invited and admission is free. For more information call 561-746-3101 or visit online at www.lighthousearts.org.