Children enjoy a unique outlook on life—one that is wide-eyed, open-minded, and receptive to all possibilities. Their interests are varied and their dreams are big. Imagination abounds. When children are presented with art materials, they are given an opportunity to harness their creativity into something tangible, offering a sense of satisfaction and success. They inquire, discover, reflect and express themselves within a safe environment. Creativity encourages their growth and provides an alternate form of communication. Art is a subject where all students can work side by side and where all students can excel.

VSA arts and CVS Caremark All Kids Can asked students, ages 5 through 15, to consider what makes them unique and to share with us their interests, talents, and dreams through art. In the process, children were able to enjoy new experiences and discover themselves as artists. A selection of submissions to the All Kids Can…CREATE! online gallery is featured within the exhibition Celebrating Who I Am. This collection of artwork gives us a glimpse into young artists’ lives from all 50 states and the District of Columbia—favorite animals, toys, and pastimes, career aspirations, and how they view themselves. Through their visual stories, we are reminded of the richness of the arts and that all kids can and want to create.