Valentina Baldini, Arts and Tech Editor
Opening night of the annual Through Our Eyes VIII art show took place at the Carriage Barn in Waveny Park on Thursday, March 13. The show will run until March 30, when winners will be selected from a collection featuring artwork from all grades, classes, and media.
The art show showcased numerous diverse art pieces and celebrated its thirteenth year. “It featured artwork from NCHS students across the board who have taken art classes from any of the three art teachers: Ms. Pennoyer, Ms. Sinski, or myself,” Kimmane Core said. “The exhibit showcased the best artwork across all grades and media. It included works of drawing, painting, digital media, mixed media, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, and photography,” Ms. Core said.
Senior Willa DeFosset, a participant in the show, is taking numerous art classes and submitted her whole senior portfolio. “Right now, I’m taking AP 2D Art and Design along with Filmmaking II,” she said. “In those classes, I edit my photos, come up with ideas for photoshoots, and write descriptions. In Filmmaking, we write, produce, and act in films.”
While the participants are traditionally students, anyone can submit their artwork. “Generally, the artwork comes from work created in art classes, but it is up to the discretion of each teacher to decide what works will be exhibited,” Ms. Core said. “If a student’s artwork has been created outside of school and is superior, it can also be shown.”
The Through Our Eyes show is more than just a showcase – an awards ceremony was held at the show’s end. “The Carriage Barn’s Board of Directors selected the best artwork during the Opening Reception night. Ben Bognon received a generous $1,000 check for his winning art,” Ms. Core said. “In addition, all works that have won either a Gold or Silver Key or Honorable Mention from the CT Regional Scholastics Competition will be on display.”
Along with a few others, Willa was one of the students who won an award. “I won a Gold Key, placing me in the running for nationals for one of my pieces,” she said. “I also won an Honorable Mention for my senior portfolio.”
People should come to see the show in the next few days to see all of the featured pieces. “It is truly amazing to see the quality and breadth of creative voice and skill level from our high school students,” Ms. Core said. “We encourage families and anyone who appreciates art to come and view the work on display.”
