Included in this edition of Norfolk Now is the latest BAF Journal, showcasing the writing and art of five local teenagers. Announced two months ago, with $100 prizes for notable work, this issue is the second in what the Battell Arts Foundation hopes will be an ongoing opportunity for local youth to demonstrate their creativity.  

In an interview, the president of the board, Linda Bell, said that the foundation’s mission is to encourage and support artistic endeavors in the community, especially for young people. As part of that mission, it has funded many organized activities over the years, such as Botelle’s drama program and community arts presentations and workshops. It also regularly awards individual scholarships to young people from Norfolk and Colebrook studying in the arts. 

However, as board member Tom Hodgkin explained, “While we have funded many organized activities and individual scholarships, we also wanted to offer an opportunity to young people who are not formally engaged in the arts to show their creativity. The BAF Journal is open to submissions from anyone, regardless of whether or not they are actively taking lessons or courses.” 

This edition highlights the work of Samantha Barbagallo, Alex Beale, Ben Crone, Avery Dougan and Ginevra DeCerbo.  Hodgkin noted that “while we were hoping for more submissions, we were really gratified by the quality of what we received. We hope this edition of the journal may inspire others to submit work the next time we do this.” 

Prizes of $100 were awarded to Samantha Barbagallo for writing and to Alex Beale for art.