SACRAMENTO – Senator Scott Wilk, representing the 21st Senate District, announces he has been named the 2019 Legislative Arts Star by the Californians for the Arts.
“It is an honor to receive this award. Santa Clarita has a vibrant art community so I am very aware of the importance of promoting the arts in our community, our schools and in Sacramento,” said Wilk. “A report by Americans for the Arts states that young people who participate regularly in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, to participate in a math and science fair or to win an award for writing an essay or poem than children who do not participate.”
Californians for the Arts is dedicated to increasing public awareness of the arts and ensuring arts are accessible to every Californian.
From the website: “In a state as diverse and culturally rich as California, the arts serve to give voice to our many communities, spark individual creativity, foster empathy and understanding, spur civic engagement and serve as a continual source of personal enrichment, inspiration and growth.”
The award was given to Senator Wilk on “Arts Advocacy Day” where more than 150 arts advocates descended on the state Capitol to discuss the importance of art with their elected officials. Senator Wilk has been a staunch advocate for funding arts in schools as well as the California Arts Commission.
“The benefits of art for our children’s development are endless – fine motor skills, analytic thinking, focus, collaboration and accountability,” said Wilk. “And, to be honest, the arts also bring immense enjoyment and beauty to our communities. I am a proud supporter for so many reasons.”