On March 1, 2024 around 400 participants from across Washington Conference gathered at Auburn Adventist Academy to shine at Arts Fest.
At 9 a.m., the campus began to buzz with energy as participants embarked on a day of rehearsals, all leading up to a vespers concert later in the evening. Rainier Auditorium became a gallery of creativity, showcasing an array of artwork while the stage came alive with performances by band, choir, handbells and orchestra.
This year's theme was "Shine." “We wanted our students to be so filled with Christ’s light that they shine in the darkness,” said Wilma Bing, Washington Conference associate superintendent.
The theme served as a guiding light for participants, urging them to illuminate the world with their unique talents. Artwork and musical renditions of uplifting songs such as "This Little Light of Mine" and "(You Are) Amazing" echoed the theme, inspiring both performers and audience alike.
Capturing the essence of the day, a video featuring students was filmed and edited. Students shared whether they were a morning bird or night owl and how they see others shine Jesus’ light.
Arts Fest, hosted annually by the Washington Conference education department, holds a special place in the hearts of participants. Michelle Wachter, Washington Conference vice president for education, stated, “Arts Fest is not just another event on the calendar; it's a celebration of creativity, camaraderie and community. It provides an opportunity for students to come together in a shared space where their artistic talents can shine.”
Beyond nurturing creativity, Arts Fest fosters connections and forges new friendships among students. “Students can be seen practicing for the evening vespers concert and practicing their skills under the guidance of the clinician," said Watcher. "But beyond the rehearsals, there's an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie as students reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Smiles abound as they share their love for music and art, creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
Arts Fest at AAA not only celebrates the artistic talents of students but also serves as a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of creativity. In a world often fraught with challenges, events like Arts Fest remind us of the enduring light of Jesus that resides within each of us, waiting to be shared with the world.
Arts Fest culminated in a Friday night vespers concert hosted at AAA.
Students spent a full day in rehearsals.
Arts Fest featured choir, band, orchestra, bells and drawings.
Schools from across western Washington participated in Arts Fest.
Arts Fest encouraged participants to let Jesus shine through them.
