Nine-Year-Old Artist Ada Reveals Her Creations in Upcoming Open Studios Art Show

YorKAOS Ada, seen with her Dragon’s Eye drawing, expressed the need for an Open Studios event for children in York.

An exhibition featuring over 200 artworks crafted by primary school students has been officially unveiled. The showcase took place in York and was the brainchild of nine-year-old Ada, who felt it wasn’t fair that “adults were the only ones to enjoy art exhibitions.”

The event held at Spark on Piccadilly featured entries from 45 different schools. Guest of honor Lincoln Lightfoot, a local artist, praised the “amazing work” and hoped it would evoke memories of when adults had an “unbridled urge to create something.”

YorKAOS The exhibition displays more than 200 works by children aged five to eleven.

Ada conceived the idea at age eight after visiting the York Open Studios arts festival in 2023. She quickly recruited friends Seth and Mabel to help organize her own version of the event for children. At the opening of YorKAOS, which stands for York Kids Art Open Studios, Ada expressed amazement: “It’s really amazing seeing all this art up on the walls.”

YorKAOS Seth, nine years old, is seen with his picture titled ‘A Study of Birds.

The exhibition not only highlights the creativity of young artists in York but also raises funds for Explore York Libraries and Archives, BBC Children in Need, and St Leonard’s Hospice. Ada’s collaborator Mabel, 10, reflected: “It feels weird because when Ada told me about it I imagined we’d only get a few pieces at Spark and just a little money for charity, but these walls are just completely full of really cool art pieces.”

Seth, nine years old, commented on the project’s rapid growth: “I’ve been shocked at how much this has taken off. It’s just amazing that all these kids have wanted to be involved and have been so passionate about this idea.”

Ada opened the event with a compelling speech encouraging attendees to support it financially.

“Look around, buy the artwork, and tell your parents to make a donation,” she said.

Lincoln Lightfoot expressed his honor in being part of such an inspiring initiative. He praised Ada’s “incredible idea” that showcases her love for art and creativity, hoping it would continue into her adult life. Everyone who submitted a piece should be proud of themselves, he added, emphasizing the uniqueness of participating in an exhibition in York at their age.

The exhibition runs until February 22nd.