PLU hosts Art from Parkland’s youth in a week-long exhibition

PLU’s University Gallery will be home to the art of promising, young artists from the Parkland neighborhood and surrounding Pierce County area Saturday, January 10 – Friday, January 16.

The PY// Art from Parkland’s Youth third annual juried art exhibition showcases work of young artists age 11-18. This year the show includes artwork from 31 student artists from Cascade Christian, Franklin Pierce High School and Washington High School.

“My favorite aspect of the show is seeing the level of talent and creativity the students provide and meeting with the student artists,” Sarah Wise ’11,  PY// Art From Parkland’s Youth founder, said. “It never fails to amaze me what the artists bring to the table or their personal stories behind their work; and it always impresses me to hear what the PLU student jurors see and appreciate in the work.”

An opening reception was held for students on Saturday, January 10 from 6-8 p.m. Each accepted artist received a participation certificate, and prizes were awarded for artwork showing exemplary artistic merit.

Nine awards were handed out including ‘Best In Show,’ ‘Best Use of Medium’ (Graphite, 2D Color, Painting, 3D), three ‘Judges’ Choice’ awards, and ‘Most Artistic Potential.’ PLU also gave four Faculty Awards: 1st place (including a $500 Artistic Achievement Award in Art and Design at Pacific Lutheran University), 2nd place, and two Honorable Mentions.

“When I started the program, I wanted to start a community dialogue between PLU and Parkland by bringing art students together,” Wise commented. “­Many of the students don’t meet each other, something I’d love to change, but they do have this peek into each other’s worlds, which fosters an appreciation for their shared interests and talents.”

PY// Art From Parkland’s Youth’s mission is to make art affordable and accessible to all young artists in the community. The organization works with teenagers in the Parkland and South Sound region of Washington State. They focus on teaching, supporting and appreciating the arts so they may make a beautiful Parkland. Current programming includes an annual juried exhibition for artists aged 11-18 hosted by Pacific Lutheran University and an annual, month-long summer camp taught by local artists.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/pyartshow