Cardozo hosted their annual art show on May 21, showcasing various pieces of art that students have worked on throughout the school year. This year’s theme was “Under the Sea,” showcasing skill, creativity, and a call to action.
Art is a class that is a place where students can express themselves and broaden their horizons, expanding out of their comfort zones. This year, some students experimented with various materials and modes of art. Students, teachers, and families come together to celebrate the talents of young artists and appreciate the effort that goes into every piece of art work that was done during this annual event.
Mr. Lavelle, one of the art teachers at Cardozo, shared that this is the sixth year that Cardozo’s art department has put on the art exhibit. “This year’s art exhibit is under the sea and it’s supposed to mostly represent the human impact on the ocean.”
Many students were able to attend the art show through class tours or during the after school sessions that were open to visitors. Even those whose art was not on display enjoyed viewing their peer’s work. Ariel, a junior, shared, “Everyone was artistic in their own way and did a great job bringing all of it to life.”
Planning the art show is not an easy task. It takes months of planning, creating, and prepping. Between the painting, sculptures, under the sea letters, and other projects, it seemed to be a pretty tight schedule for staff and students working on the show. The planning not only showcases a lesson on art itself, but also on time management skills, patience, dedication, and attention to detail.
“Every piece told a story and reflected the artist’s imagination,” Mr. Lavelle added.
On the day of the event, the school is turned into a gallery filled with colorful sea creatures and underwater displays. Art work is carefully arranged on the tables and walls along with hidden details that one would find during a treasure hunt. Labels left by each piece of artwork to give credit to the student that had created that piece. As guests walk through the exhibit, they can admire the various different styles, and techniques.
This show benefits students in many ways. It helps build confidence by giving them an opportunity to present their work to an audience. Many students are proud when others go around complimenting their work and teachers giving feedback. And receiving all the positive comments continues to encourage them.
An important aspect of the art show is the inspiration it provides for the younger students who may want to be in the arts program. They could look at the upperclassmen’s work and maybe give them the push they needed to advocate for themselves to want to do that in the next school year. Each artist brings something unique to the exhibit, and this diversity made it even more enjoyable and meaningful to have experienced.
Overall, the school art show is more than an exhibition of artwork. It was a celebration of hardworking students, creativity, self expression, and team building. The event allows students to share their talents, express themselves, and connect with others through art while also sending a message with that same art.
By providing a platform for creative expression, the art show inspires students and staff to explore more artistic abilities and see others as well. Reminding everyone of the value of art in education and everyday life.
