Youth Art Month (YAM) is an annual observance each March to emphasize the value of art and art education for all children and to encourage support for quality school art programs. The purposes of YAM are:
To direct attention to the value of art education which develops divergent and critical thinking; multi-cultural awareness; and technical, communication and expressive skills.
To increase community, business and governmental support for art education.
To recognize art as a necessity for the full development of better quality life for all people.
To expand art programs in schools and stimulate new ones.
To increase community understanding and interest in art and art education through involvement in art exhibits, workshops and other creative ventures.
To provide additional opportunities for individuals of all ages to participate in creative art learning.
To encourage commitment to the arts by students, community organizations and individuals everywhere.
To recognize art education as a viable component of the total education curriculum that develops citizens of a global society.
