Summer is undeniably in full swing and isn't grand! As the long sunny days continue, there are all sorts of different inspirations that you can find this time of year over any other. For me, one example is lightning bugs. Those are a personal favorite of mine. But more so, I find that summer you just feel like there is more freedom to explore the world. I think that feeling is tied to being able to linger outside.
While we're all doing our best to enjoy the summer as it flies by, just a reminder to take that inspiration and USE IT! Don't let summer be a time to put down your pen (or typepad of varying kinds) and not write down your story ideas or to set aside your paintbrush (or 3D printer or any medium) to create art. If you have it in you, share it! And to help students hone their creativity during the summer, you can count on the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers to provide ideas, inspiration and opportunities.
Start.Write.Now. is their summer initiative that hosts challenges for students in grades 7-12 throughout the nation and even workshops in varying cities. If you have an aspiring Zac Posen or Lena Dunham in your life, have them check it out. And even if there isn't the exact right fit, look at the online gallery of the 2014 Scholastic Art & Writing Award-winning work. It is truly inspiring. The 2015 Scholastic Awards open on September 15th so keep creating! We can't wait to see what students share with us this coming year.
