By Danny Coates-Finke and Hannah Zimmerman
Staff Writers
The exhibit includes student work from all the currently-offered art classes: Foundations in Art; Drawing and Painting 1 and 2; Ceramics, Printmaking and Book Arts; and the Honors Art classes. Some of the works, such as Alex Gibson’s portraits, Travis Weitzman’s photography, and the transgendered self portraits made by Drawing and Painting 2, have already been on display at various locations within NHS. However, most of the works are being exhibited for the first time, and these pieces include those that are rarely seen in NHS’s showcases, such as contour drawings and charcoal figure drawings.
The multiple series completed by the Honors Art students are interspersed by the works of various other students. Though each series is intact, there appears to be little organization otherwise. The exhibit would have benefited from a more apparent or consistent grouping. As it is, Fauvist and Impressionistic paintings and Intaglio collagraph prints can be found in at least two locations, and one series is interrupted with a large shaded drawing of a skeleton. However, the lack of organization may be due to the numerous styles.
Among the more unique offerings are mixed-media pieces made by Drawing and Painting 2 and the pocket books made by Printmaking and Book Arts. The books were the only pieces that were under glass cases for protections; however it would have been enjoyable to have the opportunity to flip through the books.
Still the vast majority or the works were every exciting. Among a single assignment, there is much variation, especially many different boxes produced by the Ceramics class. The series done by the Honors Art students are accompanied by artist statements that nicely compliment the work. Eliza Mason’s work with fabric was lovely, and Clara Gardner’s use of words and phrases in her pieces was intriguing.
Though there were some issues with the layout, this exhibit is recommended for not only those interested in pursuing art at the high school, but for anyone interested in seeing exceptional art. The work will be displayed through May 29.
