DAPHNE, Ala.—While artists and crafters are preparing for the arts and crafts festival in Fairhope this weekend, some of the youngest local artists will be adding finishing touches to their own artwork.

Preschool students and after-school students at The Neighborhood School in Daphne will take part in the school’s 11th annual art show. The show will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 17 at the school.

The students have prepared multiple entries to showcase their artistic talents, which will be on display throughout the evening. Carriann Toombs, school owner, said all 93 students who attend the school have created at least two pieces of art to showcase; some of the elementary aged students have produced three.

Toombs said people can expect to see everything from self-portraits to photography, oil pastels to watercolors and every medium in between on display at the art showcase.

Toombs said all of the students enjoy preparing for the art show each year. 

“In the world of children they can create, express and learn together. They love it. They look forward to the art show,” said Toombs. “They will do many pieces and they get to pick the ones they put in the art show.”

All of the artwork will be auctioned off during the event. All funds raised will benefit the school’s philanthropic efforts.  Toombs said the school has been hosting this event every spring because the school has a team for Relay for Life.

The event is also a fundraiser for the school’s Relay for Life event benefiting the American Cancer Society. According to a news release, the school has donated more than $25,000 to the American Cancer Society.

Toombs said there are two reasons everyone should come to the art showcase on Thursday.

“To celebrate art with the children — and we need to get rid of cancer,” she said.

The Neighborhood School is located at 26481 Kensington Place in Daphne.