Advanced Young Artists pairs ten exemplary high school art students with ten professional Austin-area artists in a seven month long collaborative mentorship. Each student and artist-mentor partner meets weekly over the course of seven months to plan and prepare collaborative work for this exhibition. Under the valuable professional guidance and support of their mentors, students are involved in all aspects of the exhibition including conceptualization, experimentation with supplies and installation. The role of the artist-mentor strengthens youth education in the community by creating a direct connection between youth and Austin-based artists.