Young artists from COA Riverwest Center recently displayed their work at the center gallery at 631 E. Center St.

“At a time when young people can no longer expect an introduction to art through their schools, COA’s programs are more important than ever,” said Kari Nervig, COA’s Youth Development director. “The local artists we introduce our youth to come from the same roots they do, and they are able to show young people how they can use their life experiences to express themselves in healthy, creative ways.”

Milwaukee artist Reginald Baylor and Vedale Hill (who began as a COA participant at age 5 and now teaches the art program) and the young artists attended the opening. The program is funded in part by the Mary Nohl Foundation and the Helen Bader Foundation.