BACC partnering with local schools for #BigforkArtivism

Bigfork Art and Cultural Center is partnering with Bigfork High School and Swan River School to implement a Youth Artivism Project, giving students a platform to tackle social, environmental and community issues through art.  

“The idea came from a desire to create more opportunities for student artists to showcase their work outside of the classroom and in the community,” BACC executive director Julie Bottum explained.  

The project aims to create an intergenerational dialogue; a bridge between the schools and real-world civic engagement. BACC hopes to partner with local businesses to display the pieces around town and start a social media campaign, #BigforkArtivism. A QR code displayed with the installations will lead to a digital artist’s statement to explain the project.  

An official kickoff date has yet to be determined, but students are already lined up to participate. Amber Britt and Brooklyn Little’s art classes at Bigfork and Shelley Emslie’s class at Swan River School are set to contribute.  

“This is a specific project rather than an ongoing curriculum addition. The participating teachers are integrating it into their classes, ensuring that students have the time and support needed to complete their work,” Julie Bottum, BACC executive director, noted.  

Businesses interested in hosting art should contact Bottum at director@baccbigfork.org to get signed up. A list of participating locations will be finalized soon. BACC is also organizing sponsors for students and project materials, including art supplies, installation costs or stipends or awards for participating students, which can also be made through contacting Bottum.