Davenport, IA – February 28, 2025 – First Presbyterian Church of Davenport was alive with color, creativity, and meaningful conversation on Friday evening as it hosted a juried youth art exhibition titled, “The ‘Beloved Community’ of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” The youth art exhibition, featuring works by approximately 75 students from Sudlow Middle School and the Creative Arts Academy of the Davenport Community School District, served as a powerful testament to the church’s commitment to Matthew 25 in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), particularly in its mission to Dismantle Structural Racism.

The exhibition, which took place in the church’s Fellowship Hall, was not just an artistic showcase—it was a call to action. Through oil pastels, mixed media, 3D art, and graphic design, students visually expressed themes of racial justice, equity, and unity, echoing Dr. King’s vision of “Beloved Community.” Many pieces showcased students’ reflections on racial inequality and hope for a future rooted in justice and reconciliation.

Rev. Dr. Kristopher D. Schondelmeyer, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Davenport, emphasized the event’s alignment with the church’s ongoing Matthew 25 initiative. “The PCUSA has called us to engage in meaningful work that dismantles structural racism. This exhibition gives young artists in our community a voice in that conversation, allowing them to tell stories that need to be heard.”

The juried art competition further highlighted the students’ talents, with three top prizes awarded, four best-in-category awards, and six honorable mentions, all recognized with cash prizes funded by the church. Beyond the competition, the event fostered deep community engagement. Many attendees, including educators, parents, and church members, were struck by the way the artwork sparked critical discussions on race, justice, and the role of faith in addressing inequality. “It’s about more than just art—it’s about creating safe and sacred space in our community for dialogue and action,” said Rev. Dr. Schondelmeyer.

Since January, art teachers at Sudlow Middle School and the Creative Arts Academy have incorporated the theme of this exhibition into their curriculum, integrating guest lectures on racial justice to help students explore the historical and contemporary realities of structural racism. The exhibition was the culmination of that work, bridging education and artistic expression in a way that resonated deeply with all in attendance.

Looking ahead, First Presbyterian Church hopes to make this exhibition an annual event, further solidifying its role as a center for artistic expression and social justice. As the evening concluded, the impact of the students’ artwork was undeniable—a vivid and hopeful reminder that young voices play a vital role in dismantling the structures of injustice and building a more just world.

For more information about First Presbyterian Church’s commitment to Matthew 25 and future community events, contact the Rev. Dr. Kristopher D. Schondelmeyer at schondelemeyer@fpcdavenport.org.