“Kids in Focus: A New Lens on Life” is back this summer at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.

In partnership with the non-profit Kids in Focus (kidsinfocus.org), the exhibition, which first premiered in 2022, shines a light on the artistic talent of Arizona’s youth. Showcased in this year’s rendition are photographs from 10 talented young artists. Captured in the works are unique perspectives of the West through the eyes of local middle schoolers.

For the exhibition, a selection of young artists paired up with a professional photographer as their mentor during a 9-week-long creative journey. During after-school field trips, the artists and their mentors explored the world around them through a camera lens—gaining new skills, experiences and perspectives along the way.

“We’re so happy to welcome back the Kids in Focus program,” says Todd Bankofier, CEO and executive director of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. “Giving these students a chance to display their artwork at Western Spirit is transformative for their self-confidence, giving them all a sense of pride and accomplishment.”

Kids in Focus is a non-profit dedicated to helping local at-risk youth facing challenges such as economic insecurity and food and housing instability. Through its signature after-school mentorship programs, workshops and Grads in Focus program, Kids in Focus helps give a new lens on life to hundreds of Arizona youth each year.

“Young people today face a myriad of challenges, from social media exposure to personal adversities such as bullying, abuse and neglect,” says Ann Alger Piraino, Exhibit Program Manager at Kids in Focus. “With a camera and the support of mentors, they get an opportunity to step outside themselves and confidently explore the world outside them. Seeing their artwork displayed at Western Spirit is so empowering to the kids in our programs.”

The “Kids in Focus” exhibition falls shortly after the museum’s Youth Art Month, celebrated annually each March. Youth Art Month features artists of a variety of ages and works in a variety of mediums, styles and themes.

Both “Kids in Focus” and Youth Art Month are an integral part of Western Spirit’s youth outreach efforts, which help foster creativity and the growth of young emerging artists throughout the state.

“We’re thrilled to provide a platform for the next generation of artists to showcase their talent,” says Wade Weber, the museum’s director of education. “These programs are an opportunity to celebrate the artistic achievements of our local students and encourage a lifelong appreciation for the arts.”

Kids in Focus will be on view through Aug. 25. To learn more about the exhibition, go to scottsdalemuseumwest.org