Artists in Excellence (AIE) is a cross-district, arts-based extracurricular program for students from Marquette, Negaunee, and Ishpeming High Schools administered by the City of Marquette Office of Arts and Culture in partnership with local art teachers. Students developed and lead the inaugural community art project as part of the program; a mural at Birchview elementary.

Under the guidance of local muralist Hannah Milkie, whose work can be found on the walls of Trenary Toast Cafe and Blackrocks Brewery in Marquette, students from local high schools united to design and implement a project they felt would make a difference in empowering the youth of their community and visualize the power of creative collaboration. The “Power Mural” will be unveiled in coordination with a student power assembly on Friday at 3:00pm at Birchview Elementary School (663 Poplar St, Ishpeming MI).

AIE was created to satisfy multiple City Arts & Culture masterplan objectives, including “Support Active and Engaged Community of Healthy, lifelong learners” and “talent development attraction and retention”. The program gives students direct experience with the local creative economy and builds a sense of place in their community beyond the walls of their high school and home. Future student-led community art projects will take place throughout the greater Marquette area, connecting students across municipal boundaries.

AIE is generously funded by the Upper Peninsula Health Plan and matching funds from the Community Foundation of Marquette County's Youth Fund. For more information about the AIE program visit the MQTcompass.com or contact the City Office of Arts & Culture 906-228-0472.

Note to Press: Permission from Birchview Elementary Principal, Mr. Matthew Byce, is required to attend the unveiling of the "Power Mural." Please contact 906-485-6341 to obtain permission and coordinate coverage.