Thu., Aug. 17, 6 p.m., free, Asian Arts Initiative, 1315 Cherry St., second floor, 215-557-0455, www.asianartsinitiative.org

Think children's art equals elbow macaroni and pretzel rod log cabins?

Asian Arts Initiative is proving that kids are more than just all right—they're talented, too.

"Clenched Fists, Open Hands" is the end result of AAI's six-week Youth Art Works Program, where participants ages 18 and under were instructed in disciplines like visual art, video and writing. AAI will formally unveil its work during today's reception/performance.

The theme of the show is relocation, something AAI knows well—its Cherry Street location will be displaced as part of the Convention Center expansion project. But students were also encouraged to comment on the topic from a cultural standpoint.

"Most of our Asian-American youth are Cambodian, and only one generation removed from genocide," says teaching artist Marian Thambynayagam. "[They] were able to relate on a personal level."

The program's diverse participants relished the opportunity to reflect on their heritage.

"We had the intention of creating a forum for youth to explore Asian-American and world issues, [to] share their stories and a vision for a better world," says executive director Gayle Isa. "Not too lofty."