Description: The Allstate Art Festival brings together about sixty high school juniors of exceptional artistic potential from across the state to work with professional artists in an intense, two-day collaborative studio experience. Students work together in small groups to develop a work of art inspired by the Currier's collection. Students must be nominated to participate in Allstate by their teachers. Nominees must submit essays, slides of their work, recommendations from teachers and/or community leaders, and be interviewed by a panel of art educators to be considered for Allstate.

The Allstate Art Festival is a unique art experience. Students will gain inspiration from working with the Currier's collection and facilities. They will also experience the challenge of being mentored by professional artists and the opportunity to collaborate with peers from across the state. This will help students explore their creativity and the creative process in new and exciting ways. In addition to the challenging work, students will have the opportunity to hear the artists talk about their own creative work and process. They will also hear and meet guest speakers, spend some time relaxing and having fun with fellow participants, and talk with college representatives about their art programs and planning a career in art.

All documents and information needed are sent to art departments in early November. Nomination papers must be completed and returned to the Currier by the deadline. Interviews will later take place. Nomination packets must be complete for consideration of participation in the Allstate Art Festival. Each teacher may nominate up to two juniors from his/her class. Only sixty students will be selected to participate. (There is a cost per person which includes room, meals, and some transportation; outside support for the Festival is provided by local businesses, donors, and foundations.)

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