ESCHENBACH, Germany -- Steven Moreno, a seventh-grader involved in the Arts & Crafts Program at the Netzaberg Youth Center, recently received national recognition as the Boys & Girls Club of America Artist of the Month for May 2013.
The BGCA competition asks members to submit a photograph of their best arts and crafts work with a new theme each month. As a member of club, the Netzaberg Youth Center promotes the competitions among its youth to provide opportunities for them to express themselves creatively.
Moreno said he was inspired to paint a beach for the "Hello Summer" theme because of a vacation he had in San Diego, Calif. Although he worked hard on the painting for four straight days, he was surprised by this win.
"My parents tell me I'm a good artist," he said. "My mom is very proud and she kept saying, 'I told you so!'"
It's not surprising that Steven flocks to the Arts & Crafts room when he comes to the Netzaberg Youth Center.
"It used to be the computer room but now the Arts & Crafts Room is my favorite thing because I can use my creativity," said Moreno. "It's a better use of my time at the Youth Center because I can just use a computer at home."
In addition to the Arts & Crafts program, Steven is also involved in Club Tech at the Netzaberg Youth Center. His goal in seventh grade is to become involved in the Yearbook Club.
Moreno said his parents encourage him to try out many things and he has big ambitions for adulthood. He dreams of creating art, and being a scientist and a DJ. Additionally, the young entrepreneur designs video games as a hobby.
When asked if he had any advice for other youth interested in participating in the Artist of the Month contest, Moreno said: "Don't be scared to do what you want to do. Just do what you are pleased to do. Don't add restrictions to your art."
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