As a young, talented dancer, Chris Vo provided the personal drive and hard work necessary to enhance his gift. But his young career was almost over before it could really begin as the costs associated with developing his talent went beyond what his family could afford. Chris had never been outside of his home near Dallas, and his dreams of professional dancing seemed to be dying before he graduated from high school. But then he applied to become a Young Master, a program supported by the Texas Commission on the Arts and the Texas Cultural Trust Council. With his selection in 2002, Chris received intense, professional training. He received the prestigious Presidential Scholarship in Dance, and this fall, Chris will be attending the esteemed Julliard School of the Arts to pursue his dream.

The arts instill values in our youth and our society. Studies have proven that art participation lowers student dropout rates, while increasing academic performance and community involvement. Through the arts children learn music, design, movement, words, imagination, creativity, pride, and self respect. It brings color to our lives.

The arts add more that just cultural value. As an economic generator for our state, the cultural arts are responsible for 19.8% of the total tourism in the State. For every dollar spent on cultural activities, more than $298 of cultural impact on the economy occurs, as well as $9.20 in State revenues. Access to the arts is often a deciding factor in relocation decisions across the United States. Supporting the arts makes good economic sense.

The Texas Medal of Arts Awards was created by the Texas Cultural Trust Council to highlight the rich past, present, and future of the arts in the Lone Star State. More importantly, the daylong festivities are intended to raise financial support and awareness for arts education and arts programs throughout Texas.

For young Texas artists, the reality is that it takes more than a lucky break and hard work to attend Julliard, sign a record contract, receive a commission, or even have access to professional training and mentors to perfect and pursue their artistic discipline. It takes financial support. Dreams can come true, and you can personally take pride in knowing you are helping our Texas Rising Stars paint their dreams by being a Sponsor of the Medal of Arts Awards.