YAM At Portland Museum of art

On Saturday March 14th, the Portland Museum of Art hosted its 2026 Youth Art Month celebration. The exhibit featured the work of more than 90 student artists representing 15 Maine counties. It was a vibrant gathering that brought together youth artists, families, friends, and educators to honor creativity and artistic talent across the state.

The celebration featured an impressive range of student works representing a wide variety of styles, ideas, and creative voices.

Three grade-level ceremonies were held in the auditorium, where participating students received certificates as well as bright beanies featuring the adorable, and now traditional, “Yamlet” character. In addition to celebrating our students, MAEA President Matt Johnson honored the Colby Arts team with the 2026 MAEA Art Advocate of the Year Award, Hope Lord of Waterville Senior and Junior High Schools with the 2026 MAEA Maine Art Educator of the Year Award, and Elise Pelletier, former MAEA YAM Coordinator, with recognition from the National Art Education Association for her exceptional work on YAM.

Huge thanks to the tireless work of our new MAEA YAM Chair Alex Taraschi and PMA Coordinator Meghan Quigley Graham. See the exhibit for yourself! It is on the museum’s lower level through April 5th. You can still view the art on PMA's Digital Gallery: Digital Gallery.

Back to Youth Art Month page