Fife students create art inspired by Port of Tacoma

"Our two choices were to paint wildlife or paint industrial," said Fife High Student Alyssa Stocco, who leaned on symbolism whilepainting a habitat site.

Stoccoincorporated Mount Rainier, blue heronsand salmon.

Sanaa Pond brought an impressionistic eye to depicting a cargo ship.

"I really liked how the light was hitting the water," Pond said. "It's probably one of the most fun projects I've done, I'm really proud of it."

After students toured the Portand took photos, they returned to class to create their art.

The show was held duringthe Fife Milton Edgewood Chamber of Commerce's business after-hours event.

"Having young people in this building is a very special occasion," Port Commissioner Don Meyer said in welcoming remarks.

The show included a wide range of artistic styles, and many of the works had three dimensional elements.

Brianna Ronquillo's chalk piece featureda cargo container with graffiti.

"Art can fill the world withcolor," Ronquillo said.

The Port of Tacoma's community affairs team of Leslie Barstow and Katie Skelton worked with Fife teachers Melissa Brownell and Katy Baur to organize the tour and show.

"You don't typically think of art when you think of the Port," Baur said. "It's been fun to take something industrial and create art out of it."