Celebrating its 43rd year, Shoreline Arts Alliance’s “Future Choices Visual Art Exhibition” held a gallery for the incredible artwork of high school students, proudly including several ELHS art students.
Held in Westbrook, Connecticut, the expo was open for anyone to visit and support, celebrating the achievements and astonishing work of the students.
In ELHS, the work of sophomore Sofia Matute, junior Millie-Maluhia Wright, senior Franky Chen, and senior Shannon Poirier were honored and displayed.
Visual arts teacher Rachel Michaud helped all levels with submitting their work. For a typical art exposition, she would often choose the pieces herself. As for this display, it’s more of an independent job for both her advanced and AP level students. However, ELHS art students reassure that Ms. Michaud is always there to gladly add suggestions or lend a helping hand.
Ms. Michaud describes the process as a much bigger responsibility and task than other projects. Along with their chosen artwork, students are expected to set up their own still lifes – or inanimate composition – in which they can be creative with props and furniture, in order to create an original piece from observation. The ability to creatively set up their own display and creations is a critical skill for an artist, and takes planning, a clear vision, and time management for setup.
Because of this challenge, it can be a struggle for students to feel comfortable and motivated to enter.
“Making art has always been a way to create something that is truly my own. But during the process, I come across struggles like a lack of motivation or severe self-criticism,” Wright, who has submitted her artwork for a second year, said. “But to finally finish and put it on display gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment.”
Throughout each challenging and productive minute spent on their artwork, students like Poirier find the true meaning and feeling of satisfaction once completing the creative process.
“I’m very excited that the work is completed, and it’s nice to see it fully on display, knowing I tried a lot to get it exactly how I wanted,” Poirier said. “It’s so rewarding, and I’m proud that it’s being celebrated.”
