March not only means the arrival of flowers and warm weather but also the annual True Colors Youth Art Exhibit hosted by the Arts Association of Newton County.

Currently, visual art pieces from various Newton County School System students pleasantly fill shop windows on and around the Covington Square.

This is the first year the exhibition is in stores around the Square, rather than the Newton County Library. Typically tucked away within the walls of a school’s art room, this exhibit brings the students’ artistic aspect out for all the community to see.

“We aim to make art accessible, not exclusive,” said Buncie Lanners, Executive Director of the Arts Association of Newton County.

Jodi Atkins, Marketing and Communications Coordinator for the Community Arts Association, thought this change might “bring more visitors from the public because of the change in venue.”

This exhibit encourages individuals of all ages to learn about and enjoy the visual arts, as well as connect with the artists and the community.

The True Colors Youth Art Exhibit began in 2006 through a partnership between the Arts Association of Newton County and the Newton County School System. The exhibit further enriches the visual arts involvement already emphasized by the arts association’s partners, The Southern Heartland Art Association and Wild Art, LLC.

This exhibit inspires goals for current students — a challenge to better their artistic abilities. After 10 years, students now strive to enter the True Colors Exhibit. Abigail Coggin, Event Coordinator for the Arts Association, hopes that as the exhibit continues to grow.

“It will help build an appreciation of the talented students who attend our public schools and continue to build on our community in Covington and Newton County,” Coggin said.

The True Colors Youth Art Exhibit, sponsored by Ohco Outlet Center, continues through the end of March. For more information visit the Arts Association’s website at: http://www.newtoncountyarts.org/truecolors