Youth Art Takeover brings student creativity to Downtown Bend’s First Friday

(UPDATE: Adding video and quotes from business owners)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Downtown Bend is bursting with creativity tonight as local students showcase their work during the Youth Art Takeover, part of April’s monthly First Friday Art Walk tradition. The event featured student-led art displays, live music, and performances throughout the downtown area.

The takeover gives Central Oregon’s next generation of creators a platform to share their talents while continuing Bend’s long-standing community art celebration.

Local Businesses Join the Showcase

Participating shops are marked by colorful balloons outside their entrances, guiding visitors to the student exhibits and professional art displays within. Many local businesses are combining the youth artwork with their own First Friday features and special activations.

Sarah Swartz, owner of Wildflowers of Oregon, said the event’s focus on student creativity resonates deeply with her.

"It's fantastic. As artists here in our own shop, we both came up being artists and finding our way through, elementary, middle, and high school," Swartz said. "It's really great to support the early stages of artistry."

Suzy Reininger of Leapin’ Lizards Toy Company shared that visitors have been eager to engage with the student creations.

“I've gone out and had conversations with people that are looking at it saying "how do I buy it',” Reininger said. “I would love to give the feedback to the artists that they are really impressed with the work they've done."

Music, Sunshine, and Celebration

The warmer weather is drawing big crowds to enjoy live performances, including sets from student bands, a rock group, and an 11-piece orchestra.

An awards ceremony recognizing standout student artists wrapping up an evening dedicated to celebrating young talent across Bend.