Founded by Elena Zabala and Cynthia George

Through the Eyes of a Child is a unique art and creative writing program founded by Elena Zabala and professional artist Cynthia George. Designed for children ages 7 to 16, the program provides young artists and writers with an opportunity to discover their creative voice while developing confidence in their artistic abilities.

Our first exhibition will be held on August 1, 2026, with future exhibitions to be announced throughout the year.

At the heart of this program is a simple belief: many people can learn to paint, but when a mentor helps guide a child’s imagination, emotions, and creativity, art becomes a masterpiece. Through the guidance of experienced artists and community mentors, children learn to look beyond technique and connect with the story behind their work.

What makes this program special is that children are not judged—they are mentored. Every child is unique, and each artwork reflects a different perspective, experience, and level of development. Rather than competing against one another, participants receive encouragement, constructive feedback, and guidance from selected Art Mentors who help nurture their growth as young artists.

Each participant receives:

• Professional mentoring from elected Art Mentors

• An opportunity to exhibit their artwork in a public gallery exhibition

• A Certificate of Participation

• Recognition for their creativity, dedication, and artistic growth

Throughout the program, students may be recognized through honors such as:

• Master Artist Honor

• Creative Vision Honor

• Storyteller’s Heart Honor

• Young Imagination Honor

• Artistic Expression Honor

• Emerging Young Artist Honor

• Inspired Dreamer Honor

In addition, each participant receives feedback through a Live Presentation Review and a Final In-Person Exhibition Review.

Creating a masterpiece takes dedication. Over a period of approximately 5 to 10 days, students work for about three hours each day under the guidance of Cynthia George and participating Art Mentors. In addition to creating their artwork, each student writes a short story and an artist description explaining the inspiration behind their piece.

The program fee is only $75 per child, making it accessible to families throughout our community. The actual cost of participation is much higher and is made possible through the generosity of donors and sponsors who help provide materials such as canvases, frames, acrylic paints, brushes, display materials, and exhibition expenses.

A tremendous amount of work, creativity, and support goes into creating a single piece of art. Thanks to our community partners, galleries, donors, volunteers, and professional artists, children are given the opportunity to see their work displayed with pride and celebrated by the public.

Through the Eyes of a Child is more than an exhibition—it is a place where young artists discover confidence, creativity, and the joy of sharing their vision with the world.