The annual Fine Arts Night highlighted and honored the exceptional student work across the visual arts classes on Thursday, April 24 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Work from classes such as Introduction to Drawing and Design, Studio, Ceramics, CAD, Digital Media, and Architecture were put on display with original pieces and designs.

That evening, parents were welcomed to view the various works of art during the event while students throughout the week had the opportunity during school hours to see the art in the Learning Commons and Students Services hallway.

Fine Arts Department Chairman Lisa Collins commented, “I think it gives our students the ability to showcase their artistic talents and to show the hard work that they put into something that they’re passionate about.”

She added, “We try to make sure that everyone gets something in…Everyone has talents.”

The show consisted of sculptures, portraits, 3D pieces, logos, online printed architectural models, and portfolio pieces related to AP students’ concentration in the class.

Referring to his own high school self, Mr. O’Reilly explained, “I remember the courage it took to keep trying until I mastered a skill and feeling overwhelmed by how much there was to learn.”

He added, “The show makes me feel proud of our students for facing these challenges, and as people could see from the show, they really overcame them.”

In the process, Mrs. Collins and Fine Arts Teacher Bart O’Reilly had the task of choosing judges for this year’s show.

The judges were chosen based on familiarity of JC’s art department and must be involved in the different courses offered. This year, Mrs. Collins selected her husband since he is a professional architect to share his insights.

NAHS President, Josh Ormido said, “This year’s art show had the most work presented out of all the years I’ve been here from all studio classes.”

“As I’ve been here for so long, I was able to see senior artists leave with new ones following in their footsteps in a constant cycle of creativity, offering their own unique perspective,” he added.

However, a new addition to this year’s evening was Mr. O’Reilly’s gifts and reasoning toward graduating seniors. In gratitude, Mr. O’Reilly created his own pieces to give to seniors in AP Studio.

“Over the course of the past two years with the seniors, I have watched them grow an incredible amout. Working with them on individual themes for their AP portfolio I really got to know them in a unique way,” he commented.

Mr. O’Reilly felt as though each piece spoke to his experience with the student(s), whether it be through a color scheme, feeling, or words in the title.

AP STUDIO:
Best in Show: Haan Patton
First Place: Ellie Pollak
Second Place: Kate McCracken
Third Place: Maddie Wassin

STUDIO 3/4:
First Place: Kelly McGrain
Second Place: Kamila Sokolyk
Third Place: Izzie Parrish

STUDIO 1/2:
First Place: Isabella Garland
Second Place: Mary McHugh
Third Place: Noah Casey

INTRO TO DRAWING AND DESIGN:
First Place: Celene Sergeon
Second Place: Mia Jovetic
Third Place: Alyse Giuffrida

CERAMICS:
Best in Show: Katie Hemphill
First Place: Renee Rosenberg
Second Place: Adriana Quigg
Third Place: Sara Shorts

ARCHITECTURE:
First Place: Alannah Benson
Second Place: Evie Woosley
Third Place: Roxanne Schaub