CCPS champions the arts with vibrant, robust programs that encourage creativity and self expression through music, drama, and visual art.
The first-ever District-Wide Art Show includes amazing pieces from students in kindergarten through 12th grade and is on display through March 24th at the Clark County Public Library.
“It is vital to students' full understanding of the role of an artist, that we as art teachers provide exhibition opportunities to celebrate and honor student achievements," said Baker art teacher Molly Sell. "I am hoping this showcase encourages our students to continue being creative innovators and welcomes the Clark County community into our art rooms in a way.”
From watercolors to weavings to sculptures, the pieces brighten the Clark County Library in a wonderful celebration of our students' talent and creativity.
An awards reception is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26. Juried awards of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category and overall District awards by grade level will be given. A People’s Choice award will be determined by the public voting favorite.
The panel of judges includes Board of Education members Paula Thomas, Dora Hall, and Carl Kiser as well as CCPS instructional specialists Amber Murphy and Tiffany Austin.
Ms. Sell said the idea came about this past summer when related arts teachers gathered for professional development.
“We realized that although we'd all showcased student art in outside exhibitions, we'd never displayed artwork K-12 together in one space,” she explained. “The idea was born to provide that opportunity to our students.”
Art teachers have been collaborating since early December to bring the district art show to fruition.
Each visual art teacher chose up to 10 pieces of 2D art (plus an additional 2 to showcase exceptional learners) and up to 5 pieces of 3D art.
“Pieces were chosen to highlight the very best of each school's program," said Ms. Sell. "They display exceptional craftsmanship, originality, composition, and emotional response when viewing the art."
She said she hopes this is just the beginning for the district art show as the teachers hope to expand the number of pieces and incorporate community partners.
“This is my first year in Clark County and I am already so proud to be a part of the Art Department,” she said. “Students are being taught to be engaged citizens and creative innovators through a range of opportunities inside and outside the art room."
Shoutout to the CCPS art teachers whose expertise in the classroom led to this wonderful opportunity for students: Ms. Sell, Caleb Burchett, Kristin Gray, Makayla Singleton, John Joseph, Caleb Paul, Ashely Brinker, and Brittani Fuller.
"Art teachers at each level," Ms. Sell said, "are helping students to develop their craft, observe the world around them, and explore new ways of thinking and making.”
CCPS photos