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gracias

call for artists

Pre-K 4 SA is looking for local artists to partner with classrooms to create artwork.

GO TO AUCTION
Artists at Gracias San Antonio exhibit

Civic Learning at Pre-K 4 SA

Gracias San Antonio: Children are Citizens Project is a classroom-based opportunity for local artists to collaborate with three- and four-year-old students enrolled in Pre-K 4 SA centers across the city.

Artist Responsibilities
  1. Connect with the Teacher
  2. Introduce a Medium
  3. Reflect on City Explorations and Create Art
  4. Keep it Fun and Engaging
  5. Show Your Passion
Sign Up

Gracias Timeline

November
  • Pre-K 4 SA students vote for a local nonprofit to support throughout the year.
  • Call for artists sent out to invite artists to learn about the project.
December
  • Teachers, students, and their families go on City Explorations.
  • Once confirmed, classroom teachers meet with artists to discuss the art proposal, medium, techniques, and classroom work session schedule.
January-February
In January the art creation process kicks off. Local artists join children in the classroom to create authentic art pieces using a variety of artistic mediums to express the children’s perspective of their city and the places they visit and explore. The creative phase lasts for six weeks through mid-February.
March
Final artwork for each classroom is submitted for official photography, to be included in the Gracias Exhibition Guide and Online Auction
April-May
Pre-K 4 SA hosts an exhibit opening inviting families and the community to view artwork for the first time. The Online Auction opens immediately following the event. Auction winners will be notified via email.
June
A check presentation to the voted-upon nonprofit, including funds from artwork, t-shirt, and Fiesta medal sales.

More About Gracias San Antonio

This annual project is grounded in the belief that children are not just future citizens, they are citizens at this moment in time, with the right to express their opinions and civically engage in San Antonio. All Pre-K 4 SA students have the opportunity to vote for a nonprofit, explore the best of San Antonio’s landmarks, and bring their inspirations to life through art right in their classrooms.

Since 2013, the project has raised funds for the following nonprofits: Good Samaritan Community Services, San Antonio Humane Society, Any Baby Can of San Antonio, Children’s Shelter, Child Safe, St. Pj’s Children’s Home, Therapy Animals of San Antonio and the THRU Project.

Learn More

Artist FAQs

What are the requirements to participate as a volunteer artist?

No professional arts experience is required to participate. Time commitment of 1 hour per week in the classroom for a total of 6 weeks is required. 

Can artists pick the age or classroom they want?

Artists pick the Pre-K 4 SA Center most convenient for them and a classroom. The artist will stay with the same classroom for the duration of the project. 

What is the inspiration or subject for the artwork?

As part of the project, students go on field trip-like experiences, known as City Explorations, to various landmarks throughout the city to find inspiration for the work of art. Artists will work in collaboration with the students to bring their inspiration to life. 

What artistic mediums and practices are allowed?

Artist volunteers will meet with their classroom’s teacher to discuss the artwork idea, techniques, medium, and materials needed.

What kind of impact does the program have?

Inspiring young minds through the power of art is the gift of a lifetime. In addition to sharing your talent with San Antonio youth, you are also creating a piece of artwork that is inspired by the culture of our community and brought to life through the eyes and talents of Pre-K 4 SA children  that will help raise money for a nonprofit organization in need.

How do I sign up to be a volunteer artist?

Submit an interest form or contact pre-k4sa@sanantonio.gov for any questions.