In a world where art is often considered secondary to other academic pursuits, it’s refreshing to see that some young local artists are being acknowledged for their creative talent.
From now through Feb. 16, the work of selected student artists from Lake Orion, Oxford and St. Joseph Catholic schools, will be on display at the Orion Art Center in downtown Lake Orion. The Fifth Annual Student Art Show will feature the work of about 50 students at various grade levels.
Trisha Donaldson, program coordinator at the Orion Art Center, says a variety of artistic mediums are represented among the student works, including: watercolors, oils, ink drawings, collages, pottery, weaving, fabrics, foil and other techniques and materials.
It’s no small honor to have been selected to display one’s work at the Student Art Show, says Donaldson, alluding to the quality of art submitted by local teachers for their consideration.
‘It’s challenging for the teachers to have to select just a few pieces for inclusion in the show,? she says, ‘because there are so many students doing such great work.?
Donaldson believes the opportunity for students to have their art displayed to the public helps validate their talent, builds confidence and inspires them to continue along their artistic paths.
Often, she says, the artists? parents aren’t aware of the talent of their children until they see it in an exhibit.
‘Until parents can see their kids? art professionally matted and hanging on a wall, they don’t appreciate what the kids are doing. They’re often really surprised and impressed with the art.?
Donaldson credited Diana Ostrand of Accent on Art, with providing the matting and shrink wrapping for the artwork being displayed at the show.
Ostrand and her husband, D.J., will serve as honorary chairpersons at the Art Center’s upcoming Snowflake on Saturday, Feb. 10 at Indianwood Country Club.
Several pieces of student art will be selected for display at the gala.
Tickets for the Snowflake Ball are $85, and will not be available at the door.
In addition to dinner and fine desserts, the Snowflake Ball features a premium open bar, live entertainment and dancing, and silent and live auctions.
The OAC is located at 115 S. Anderson Street, behind the Lake Orion fire station. Parking is available in the adjacent municipal lot.
Special hours for the student exhibit are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays) and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.