ARDMORE, OK -- A world renowned artist is coming to Ardmore to teach and help the city in its effort to include art in every child's education. Daniel Armbruster has more.

Medal of Arts recipient Jesus Moroles is in Ardmore to teach the art of granite sculpting. Moroles is recognized around the world, and there were many cities that wanted him to teach these workshops, but in the end he chose Ardmore.

And the city that says it is moving forward with its own art programs couldn't be happier he did.

If you drive down 1st Avenue in Ardmore, you might notice something different-- a granite sculpture donated to the Goddard Center by world renowned artist and Texas native Jesus Moroles.

President George W. Bush even recognized Moroles with the National Medal of Arts for the Visual Arts.

It is an honor Moroles calls one his proudest moments.

"Being also the youngest person to ever receive it, it was unbelievable," he says.

Moroles was in Ardmore on Wednesday to dedicate the sculpture and announce that he will be teaching granite sculpting workshops here later this year. He says he believes his recognition by the former president comes from doing workshops that give back to the community.

"The description for that honor is that you do things for the community that you give back. That's a big thing for that award."

Recently there has been a growing movement in Ardmore to expose the public to more culture, something Chamber of Commerce Vice President Mita Bates says is important to a progressive community and attracts quality residents.

"Communities that have vibrant arts attract the best and the brightest," Bates says.

Joann Moore, chairman of the advisory board for the Goddard Center, says workshops like Moroles' attract more than just a few.

"Never under 300. We always have 300 children, and they're always able to get up and interact with the artist.”

Moroles says this artwork took him some time to create, but he hopes its symbolism will last even longer to a community that is ever-changing.

There will be two 4-day sessions, one in July and another in October. The cost is $500 per person per session. For information or to register, contact the Goddard Center at (580) 226-0909.