Monroeville Public Library’s Elaine Biondi Gallery Space will be filled with local talent Feb. 27-March 24 during Gateway School District’s annual art show. The exhibit will include artwork created by students from kindergarten through 12 grade.
“The show features a wide range of media and styles, reflecting the developmental journey of young artists as they explore color, line and storytelling from elementary school through more advanced, concept-driven works by middle and high school students,” said high school art teacher Julie Lawrence.
The tradition of displaying the district’s artwork in the Gallery Space began more than 20 years ago as a collaboration between the library and Gateway’s art teachers.
The exhibit, which is organized by Greta Severson, the visual arts department chair at Gateway High School, coincides with Youth Art Month — an annual, nationwide celebration of the visual arts.
Youth Art Month was established in 1961 by the Art Creative Materials Institute to increase knowledge and interest in art and art education through exhibits, festivals, school events and other creative ventures. This year’s Youth Art Month theme is “The World Needs Art.”
The unique opportunity allows the Monroeville community to experience the creativity, imagination and artistic growth of students across all grade levels, Lawrence said.
“Displaying student artwork in a public space, such as the library, plays an important role in strengthening community connections,” Lawrence said.
“Art has the power to spark conversation, invite reflection and bring people together.”
The benefits of celebrating youth art with the community are immeasurable. Seeing their projects displayed outside the classroom builds confidence in students, as well as a sense of belonging and pride, Lawrence said.
For the community, getting to enjoy young people’s creations fosters pride in local schools and offers insight into the students’ voices, perspectives and talents.
“This exhibition highlights how the arts enrich education and serve as a powerful bridge between our schools and the community,” Lawrence added.
“The student show is always a community favorite,” said Linda Reese, manager of the Gallery Space. “Volunteers from the Friends of the Monroeville Public Library enjoy coordinating this exhibit with the Gateway schools to help students showcase their work in a gallery setting.”
In conjunction with the art show, the Friends group, with support from library staff, will hold a food drive for the Gateway Backpack Program from March 1-28.
A list of needed food items and collection boxes will be stationed outside the Gallery Space. The program’s mission is to supply students in need with a backpack filled with nonperishable food every Friday to take home for the weekend. For more information about the Gateway Backpack Program, contact University Park Elementary School Principal Jennifer Hoffner at 724-327-4113.
Follow the Friends on Facebook to learn more about the organization and upcoming events, such as the food drive.
For questions about the Gallery Space, contact Reese at monroevillegallerylreese@gmail.com.
