By Susan Gager

EUGENE, Ore. -- The downtown Eugene Storefront Art Project is showcasing the work of young artists.  Head Start students are telling stories and painting the scene for your stroll downtown.

"It's art from their heart and they tell us what their stories mean," said Sami Allen, Head Start of Lane County.

For over a year now, volunteers have spruced up empty storefront windows with artwork.  Wednesday, the old public works building became a work of art, thanks to more than 1,000 Head Start children from all over Lane County.  Volunteers hung up more than 100 pieces of artwork.  The young artists ranged from 3 to 5 years old, bolstering their imagination and their motor skills, while at the same time telling stories about their lives.

"The energy and the innocence is there.  It's bound to put a few smiles on people's faces as they walk by," said Paula Goodbar, Eugene Storefront Art Project.

The art is also part of a fundraiser to help Head Start programs in Lane County to fund facilities and playground development.  Forty pieces were selected and framed for a silent art auction.  Event organizers say when you bid on the art, you get a bonus.  For instance, bid on a picture of a cow, get a beef box.  The silent art auction takes places on March 31st at the Whiteaker Head Start Center.