Conference for Young Artists

  • YA

    Unleash your creativity and ignite your imagination at the SWWC Young Artists Conference! This vibrant event invites students to dive into the world of art, where their hands and minds will craft extraordinary creations. Schools and parents bring students to this dynamic conference to explore diverse artistic worlds and inspire them to embark on exciting new adventures in which students will craft extraordinary creations. Get ready to experience the magic of creativity like never before!

Young Artists Dates & Fees

  • Celelebrating 32 years!
    The Brochure and Registration are now available.
     

    **IMPORTANT NOTE**: Due to summer flooding at SMSU, the RA Facility is under construction. For this year's Young Artists, the location of check-in, the gathering space and the keynote will be held in the Conference Center at SMSU. We will be using both upper and lower levels. Therefore, the keynote will be split into two 15-min segments. Also, due to space limitations, there will be a cut-off on registrations, and we will not be able to go over their max capacity in the Conference Center. Make sure you register early.

     
    Who can register: For all students in grades K-8.
    School teachers register groups of students and their chaperons.
    Parents register their students and themselves.
     
    Young Artists Event Date: October 29, 2025
    You do not need to be an SWWC member to participate.
     
    Young Artists Fees: 
    $40 per student
    $10 per adult
     
    Registration Deadline: Closes at midnight on September 24, 2025
  •  
    Guest Speaker : 
         Sheku Bannister aka BIGG Shake, recording artist
     
    Sheku     team     

    Sheku E. Bannister, widely known as BIGG Shake, is a multi-hyphenate creative: a recording artist, motivational speaker, youth mentor, and community leader who uses the power of music, movement, and message to inspire the next generation. Born in California with Sierra Leonean roots and raised between East Palo Alto and the Midwest, Sheku draws on a diverse background to connect with students from all walks of life. He is the founder of Survival Records, a purpose-driven music label, and the creator of original works like “Finisher” and “Together We Rise”—anthems that speak to perseverance, faith, and unity. Sheku is also a dedicated youth coach, curriculum developer, and arts educator who believes every student has greatness inside them just waiting to be activated. Through keynote speaking, interactive workshops, and community-driven performances, he brings energy, authenticity, and practical tools to inspire students to believe in themselves, belong to something bigger, and become the leaders of tomorrow. With a passion for young people and the arts, Sheku is committed to helping students unlock their creativity, discover their voice, and boldly live out their purpose.

    Mixhael Angelou was born Christopher David, in Monroe, Louisiana. At a young age, he got started with instruments and choir in church, and started his first music group at 12 with his brother. He is receiving an independent record deal by 13, with Snowtown Ent. At 19, he was brought into and received a deal through Keezo Kane with Kanye West and G.O.O.D. Music. With years in the music industry under his belt, having worked with the likes of Nipsey Hussle, Rick Ross, DJ Drama, Mac Miller, Miguel, The Escovedo family/Sheila E., Prince, Modsun; he is now independent with his brand NoWhere Boy and on3.

    Follow Sheku on Instagram biggshake or Facebook Sheku Bannister

    Second Speaker:

    Oak Kelsey, is a local artist from Marshall. Oak is a two-dimensional artist and musician. He paints, does graphic design, draws with chalk, and makes zines. In his spare time, he takes photos, makes short films, makes music, and rides bike.

Thank you to our Grant Funder

  • clean water logo
    This activity is funded in part by a grant from the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council made possible by the voters of Minnesota thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund and an appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the state's general fund.

Google Map/Directions to SMSU

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