More than 15 years ago, Vashon Allied Arts began to partner with Vashon High School’s art department to showcase student art in the Blue Heron Gallery.
The biennial student exhibition has evolved into tradition for students and community alike, and the latest incarnation of the show will be on view throughout May at the Blue Heron Gallery.
Art teacher Amy Dubin, who has participated in five Vashon High School student shows, said more than 80 pieces of work from more than 60 students, freshmen to seniors, will be shown this year.
The exhibit opens from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 1, with refreshments and live music by Yes Mam, comprised of VHS seniors Alex Davis on guitar and vocals, Graham Mayshark on guitar and vocals and Aedan Weber, who plays cello.
Dubin, who co-curates the show with Blue Heron gallery curator Janice Mallman, said the show will include a variety of media, including prints, watercolor, acrylics, oils, drawings, painted tiles, photography, jewelry and ceramics.
“I look for extraordinary examples in different mediums — originality is important,” said Dubin. “There seems to be a huge influx of incredibly talented artists, freshmen and sophomores. They come here so ready to do art. I think it’s the Island — everyone sees the value of art as part of life. It’s not just something you do on Fridays.”
Dubin explained how much community involvement contributes to the program.
“We are grateful for a $500 PIE grant and a $500 contribution from PTSA, which provided funding for all the framing materials, along with deep discounts from Donna Kellum at Frame of Mind,” she said. “These shows would not happen without community support of these organizations and individuals. Everyone at VAA is so supportive. This community has never failed to support the arts since I’ve been here.”
Senior Emily Horowitz, who has participated in many of Dubin’s classes and will show Northwest native designs painted on clay plates and other pieces, described the show as “a chance for a real world experience as an artist.”
Senior Emma Strong, who will show a watercolor painted from a photo, added, “It’s a unique opportunity for a high school student to have art displayed in a gallery setting.”
