In search of young artists

I first met Lin Arison over 25 years ago who told me of her very new organization National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts . She and her now late husband and founder of Carnival Cruise lines Ted Arison had just founded it to give support to young and supremely talented artists across America. We decided to collaborate on a television special for WLRN Public Television in Miami where we would videotape these young people who had come to South Florida from all over the country to show off their creativity. While I was amazed at the level of talent these young people displayed, I don't think that I fully realized how important the work of this organization was to become. National Foundation for the Advancement in the Arts has grown dramatically over the years, and is now nationally recognized for its dedication to identifying and nurturing our country's most talented young artists in the visual arts, dance, theatre, writing , music, and other art forms. NFAA and Young Arts, its core program which provide recognition and awards to young artists across the country, is truly one-of a-kind. Lin Arison who remains as passionate and dedicated as ever affirms that it's not easy for young people who are born with exceptional artistic talents. In fact, she says that they often feel alone and isolated from other young people whose lives may seem more normal. Through recognition and bringing these young people together, they feel more secure about pursuing vibrant and artistic careers. It is these young people who will be tomorrow's creative might in our world.

Coming up in January, nominees will be coming to Miami from around America for NFAA's ArtsWeek. 150 students out of thousands of applicants will come together for an all expenses paid week of master classes, showcase performances, exhibitions, enrichment programs and the final auditions. It is 26 years later, and I look forward to witnessing this gathering of young artistic greatness.

For more information , visit www.nfaa.org