NORWICH – The Chenango Arts Council is setting the stage for one of the largest youth-oriented art shows of the year.

The annual “Artistic Discovery” series features the work of local high school artists who are vying for a place in the national spotlight. Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors the nationwide competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent among high school students.

An opening reception will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, at the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries of the Chenango Arts Council, 27 W. Main St. in Norwich. Students' art work will remain on display through April 18. As with every gallery opening, the event is free and open to the public. Students' work will remain on display through April 18. This year's local Artistic Discovery is made possible through sponsorship from Congressman Richard Hanna (NY-22nd district) and additional support from the George and Eisabeth Mead Foundation.

“This is one of the most exciting exhibits we have on display all year,” said Chenango Arts Council Operations and Programs Director Joyce Zummo. “It never ceases to amaze me, the talent and the creativity of teachers and their students.”

Since its start in 1982, Artistic Discovery has drawn interest from hundreds of thousands of young artists from all over the country who submit their work for display in their respective congressional district.