Young Artists Make an Impression
An array of art pieces ranging from 3-D sculptures to paintings to photos greeted the visitors at Hendricks Live!. Prints and frames line a wide range of rail systems that feature awards and ribbons to each gallery winner.
“Make an Impression” is a free art show featuring over 60 pieces from six high schools in Hendricks County. The event is on display until Friday Feb. 14, at Hendricks Live! Award money, totaling between $10,000 -$15,000, is donated by Indiana Arts Commission, businesses, and private donors.
“I’m amazed, inspired and even in awe when artists one quarter of my age are so good… I think seeing good art is contagious. It makes you want to try it too,” said Brian Russelburg, who runs the event.
The event helps propel art students into further artistic and life success.
“I have seen students enter this event as freshmen but by the time they’ve become seniors, they’re doing professional level work. Many times a teacher is pouring themselves and all they know into the student,” said Russelburg.
By doing professional level work students are able to learn and grow as individuals while building their portfolio, Cascade art teacher Rachel Morris agreed, noting, “It builds their people skills, and they’re able to come up and show their artwork to the people in the community. It builds their confidence that pours into their real life.”
One of the skills teachers and students have to learn is how to correctly frame their pieces to be displayed on a rail system.
“This year a student didn’t have a frame properly assembled and I personally saw Matt Sides of Danville bring in his own tools to wire it properly. I love these teachers! So giving and they generally really care for these students,” said Russelburg.
The community and competitiveness developed through this show truly brings students together and gives them criticism and inspiration on which to build an art foundation. For students, being judged helps young artists view their work from a different lens and be inspired.
The jurors are experts in art who evaluate material for the competition, take note of creativity, follow through and execution, and presentation.
“Having my art judged helps me to improve as an artist, to be able to know where I stand and be inspired to improve myself as an artist,” said Jordan Swearington, who won the Best of Show award.
“Make an Impression” is a unique art competition which can help high school art students grow and develop their talents to carry into the future. For a full list of winners, visit Hendricks County Arts Collective Facebook page.