IU Kokomo Art Gallery features high school exhibition

KOKOMO, Ind. - Creative work by 65 area high school juniors and seniors is showcased in the Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery's newest exhibition.

The 28^th Annual High School Art Exhibition continues through Wednesday, April 1, and includes artwork in a variety of media ranging from drawing, painting, ceramics, mixed media, photography, and more.

Carrie Baxter, gallery director, said the campus hosts the show each year to recognize and support the creative achievements of area students.

"The exhibition provides young artists with the opportunity to display their work in a professional gallery environment, helping them see their ideas and efforts valued by the broader community," she said. "For visitors, the show is both inspiring and energizing. It reveals the incredible talent developing in local classrooms and offers a glimpse into the perspectives and creativity of the next generation. By attending the exhibition, community members not only enjoy a wide variety of artwork, but also play an important role in encouraging young artists to continue exploring and sharing their creative voices."

A panel of faculty judges selected several pieces for special distinction, with awards presented at the opening reception on Wednesday (March 11). People's Choice voting continues through the exhibition.

Brenda Macias-Pacheco from Lafayette Jefferson High School won first place for her watercolor on twin rocker paper, titled Serpent in Bloom.

Second place was awarded to Eli Gahl, Northfield High School, for a mixed media piece, Impression of Self. Avanley Robertson, Lafayette Jefferson High School, placed third for a clay and underglaze sculpture, Unchanged Fates.

Honorable mentions were awarded to Morgan DeBard, Taylor High School; Rylan Schultz, Northfield High School; and Emma Sturch, Peru High School.

Additional artists participating included:

Guerin Catholic High School: Addison Huff, Anna Kolb, Lucy McNary, Audrey Papay, Bella Pino, Natalie Reynon, Caty Traub

Lafayette Jefferson High School: Dustin Conner, Possum DeLisle, Ashley Galindo, Jessica Ibarra, Spencer Kittelle, Cesilia Pinto Haro, Jordan Quesada, Klarissa Swindle, Jaxon Vigus

Mississinewa High School: Airianna Brown, Makana Brown, Natalie Grey, Callan Little, Mae Smith

Northfield High School: Tayten Barlow, Emily Bever, Saige Martin, Jackson Mercer, Zoey Music, Fiona Schnelker

Peru High School: Lo'Reaja Anderson, Reis Bellar, Cassandra Blong, Jacey Boswell, Rylee Bowman, Cinthia Burnett, Zoe Cross, Sophia Greer, Tobi Odubena, Isaiah Pohlman, Maya Roberts, Emily Rodriguez, Karter Schwartz, Lainey Wouster

Taylor High School: Javionne Harris, Rachel Higley, Santana Howard, Deviante Humphries, Suniaire Sharp

Tipton High School: Abigail Kardos, Avyah Hogwood Aliah Moore, Lia Plake, Taylor Turner

Western High School: Ameerah Chiamopolous, Madison Davis, Gracelynne Everling, Dawson Garrett, Maura Geiger, Lucy George, Keegan Tedder, Shyla Whittington

The exhibit is free and open to the public in the Gallery, in the IU Kokomo Library Building, 2300 S. Washington St. Free parking is available on campus.

The IU Kokomo Art Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

For more information about the IU Kokomo Art Gallery, visit kokomo.iu.edu/gallery/.

Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.