James Pinkley, a drama student at Harlan County High School, is participating in this summer’s Kentucky Center Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA).

Taking place at the University of Kentucky in Lexington through July 13, The Kentucky Center is hosting 256 eager, young artists from every region of the commonwealth.

As one of the nation’s leading liberal arts colleges that strives to create a nurturing environment where creative young people have transformative experiences, The University of Kentucky is excited to host GSA this year on its campus for the first time.

During their three-week stay, student-artists from 52 counties will be immersed in a rigorous schedule of daily seminars, master-classes, lectures, hands-on workshops and field trips to regional arts attractions. Instruction will be offered in nine disciplines: Architecture and design, creative writing, dance, drama, film and photography, instrumental music, musical theatre, visual art and vocal music.

Since 1987, more than 6,000 talented high school rising juniors and seniors have attended the GSA summer program. The program will culminate on July 13 with an all-day festival that celebrates the achievements of Kentucky’s young artists. Additionally, 30 colleges and universities currently offer scholarships to alumni of GSA, including 21 schools in Kentucky.

“We are thrilled to welcome a new class to the GSA family,” said Nick Covault, director of GSA and an alumnus of the program. “Each year GSA receives a competitive number of applications from talented young artists across the state. We thank all who applied, and congratulate the 2019 class – a promising group of driven and forward-thinking young artists who will spend the summer forging their voice as Kentucky’s next generation of creative leaders. As artists, your vision is imperative to society and Kentucky’s future. We applaud you, as well as the parents, teachers, and advocates who support you in your creative pursuits.”

GSA is a public/private partnership inaugurated in 1987 by The Kentucky Center, The Commonwealth of Kentucky and numerous private supporters. Today, the vital funding required to make GSA a reality is provided by the state through the leadership of the Governor’s Office and the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, as well as The Kentucky Center Endowment Fund, Toyota Motor Manufacturing and more than 300 corporations, parents, educators, alumni and friends of GSA.