Potential Magazine September 2014 | Page 37

teen spotlight photography by Lauren Childs stats 12, 7th grade at New Horizons Homeschool in Alexander City notable “Today Show’s” Best Pint-Sized Picasso finalist; Kitty Dark Art Award; Founder of Hannah Z, Art 4 All, and Paint 4 Your Pancreas; Member of Alexander City Chamber of Commerce quotable “Some people tell me that I’m strange for wanting to own my own business or that I am giving up my childhood to do something that only adults should do; others just think it’s cute, and thensome don’t take me seriously. ” how it began Hannah Walton started painting at 6 years old and had sold her first artwork by the time she was eight. Now, at 12, Hannah has made a name for herself in as Alexander City’s youngest business owner with the opening of Hannah Z, a store for her hand-made clothing, home décor and artwork. Hannah’s art has been recognized locally and nationally. Hannah also founded Art 4 All, a nonprofit that provides free art education to more than 13,000 children across the Southeast. She also founded Paint 4 Your Pancreas, a paint party fundraiser created in memory of her grandfather that raises funds and awareness of pancreatic cancer and research by the Lustgarten Foundation. what’s next Hannah is well on her way to fulfilling her dreams of becoming a respected designer and traveling art teacher. “I want to be remembered as someone who loved art and loved to share it with others,” said Hannah. hannah walton PG (parental guidance) rating Hannah looks to her mother, grandparents and art mentor Dawn Thornton as inspirations. “They have helped to raise me to know that with love and support from people who love you, you can accomplish anything,” she said. Alexander CIty, AL parents’ perspective Hannah’s mom Allysen Walton admires Hannah’s determination and her passion. “Hannah is never afraid to try something new; even if it fails, she tries new and creative ways to make it successful.” Allysen admits that she takes the backseat and allows Hannah to be herself. “I support her decisions if I see they will help her become a better person,” she said. parent-to-parent Allysen advises other parents to: “Encourage your child. Allow their imaginations to guide them; it normally leads them to something that they love. Allow them to see that it’s okay to make mistakes through your mistakes. It shows them that no one is perfect and when they make a mistake, it shows that they are not a failure; it just means they have to try harder.” www.potentialmagazine.com 37