For students thinking about post-secondary education in the arts, showing their work next to established artists is an inspiration and a motivator to continue developing their artistic styles while still in high school.
The Vernon Public Art Gallery (VPAG) presents Art and Soul, an annual exhibition of artwork by students in grades 8-12, from School District 22. Until May 17, students from all high schools in the Greater Vernon area have the opportunity to display their artwork in a public gallery setting at the VPAG.
With all the excitement and professionalism of a big exhibition — including the right lighting, an opening reception, and plenty of community exposure — young artists get a taste of what it’s like to show their work to the public, often for the first time.
“Art and Soul is an expression of the artistic talent coming out of our high schools in district 22,” said Dauna Grant, VPAG executive director.
“Three gallery spaces will be dedicated to featuring the creative pursuits of the youth in our community.”
Works in the secondary school exhibition are displayed alongside professional Canadian artists elsewhere in the Gallery, which holds four exhibition spaces. Each year the diversity of mediums and subject matters and the inclusion of some work intended for university applications creates a unique and varied exhibition of strong student artwork.
The artwork will fill the walls of the Caroline Galbraith, Community and Up-Front Galleries at the Vernon Public Art Gallery, and will run concurrently with recurring cycles by Vancouver-based artist, Shinsuke Minegishi.
Art and Soul runs at VPAG until May 17. Admission is by donation. The gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit www.vernonpublicartgallery.com.