YOUNGSTOWN - The Valley's next generation of artists are showing their work at the Butler Institute of American Art. 

Drawing, paintings, collages, sculptures, photography and digital art by young artists were looked at by hundreds in the Butler Institute.

The museum recognized 261 pieces of art created by students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

“I was really really excited,” said Presley Gerhardstein, 1st grader at C.H. Campbell Elementary.

The art on display was from 44 schools across the Mahoning valley.

During the ceremony, first, second and third place awards were given to students in every grade. An award was also given to Braelynn Blucker, a student from Struthers Middle School, for ‘Best of Show.’ 

But even if they didn’t place, every student selected for the showcase won a ribbon.

Teachers from Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties chose the students to honor at the Butler Institute. 

“Every single art teacher had to look at their students in every single art class, and select only six works to have exhibited here in this show. So, all of those students will receive a ribbon today, and be recognized at our awards ceremony,” said Joyce Mistovich, director of education at the Butler Institute of American Art.

Mistovich created the event two years ago, with the hopes of inspiring young artists.

“As we foster this creative spirit in young children, that only encourages the creative and cultural spirit going forward to their families and friends,” said Mistovich.

While recognizing the students for their hard work, the awards also honor the teachers inspiring young artists across the valley. 

“Teachers are really instrumental in bringing out and inspiring their students to move on to more creativity and giving them the inspiration, and that spark,” said Mistovich.

The Butler will hold the Art Exhibit and awards ceremony every year in march. 

“We plan to do it annually, and the reason being is that throughout the nation, march is recognized as youth art month, so the Butler feels like we want to celebrate young artists, and we thought about this a few years ago,” said Mistovich.