National Fine Arts Winner From Garden Grove

Miguel Duran spent hours drawing figures and letters growing up, but ever since he joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of Garden Grove and became involved in the National Fine Arts Program (NFA), Miguel has expanded his horizons and thought patterns to different types of art.

The NFA Program was implemented at the Santiago High School early last fall. Through the program, all different mediums of the Arts are introduced to the members and each member is able to find his or her own personal direction and style for creativity in each medium. Club members are shown all the necessary steps to produce a finished piece in a professional and timely manner. They sketch out ideas, research imagery in books or on the computer, and learn principles of design, techniques for each medium, and application of line and color.

Miguel expressed his passion for art since the very first day of the NFA Program. He enlisted the time, patience, and dedication necessary to produce and enhance his own artistic skills. Through his dedication he completed a finished piece titled "La Virgen de la Arte" (Virgin Saint of Art). Miguel submitted the completed piece to the Local Exhibit of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Garden Grove and his piece was chosen by a panel of judges to compete in the Pacific Regional Competition of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

"Miguel had all the heart and dedication necessary to complete something truly original for our local exhibit. I was very excited for him to hear that he was chosen to compete for our organization. It was an honor for me just to help mentor such a young talent," expressed Tony Pash, Fine Arts Program Supervisor.

Judges from the Pacific Regional Competition were also impressed with Miguel's piece and it took first place. His piece will now advance to the National Competition for his age group and category and be displayed at the annual National Conference.

"I never knew I could get first place, I was amazed that I won it, but I was also very proud of myself," said Miguel Duran.

The National Fine Arts Program allows our members to explore the aesthetic and technical qualities of various arts and crafts and develop critical thinking skills. They develop skills and expand individual creativity while gaining confidence and character.

Click here for photos of Local Exhibit

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"Young people who are involved in making something beautiful today are less likely to turn to acts of violence and destruction tomorrow. The arts... provide opportunities for youth from all backgrounds to do something positive and creative with their talents and their time. We all need to support the arts. In doing so, we are telling America's youth that we believe in them and value what they can be."

Janet Reno, Past Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice