Szozda Gallery hosts the 8th annual Kids’ Benefit Art Show, featuring the work of Seymour Dual Languge Academy students and introducing Meachem Elementary student works for the first year of the show.
The show runs through June 12 at the gallery, 501 W. Fayette St.
Over the years, this benefit student art show has proven to be a win-win happening that celebrates young artists’ talent, encourages parent involvement, invites the public to enjoy student work and, most importantly, benefits the arts programs at both schools through sale of the works displayed in which a portion of proceeds goes to the student’s school art program and the other half to the student.
Art teachers Stacy Griffin and Kelly Moser-Vogler stress the added significance of this year’s show in light of increased budget cuts to school arts programs across the board. “With this program, show sales provide the means for schools to purchase more supplies so that students can continue to create outstanding artworks in a variety of mediums,” said Griffin.
She added:
“Having access to a noted, professional gallery space helps kids realize the value of their hard work and in the art they create. It allows both students and their parents to experience what is likely their first foray into a well-appointed public gallery while at the same time, giving students a sense of accomplishment in being exhibiting artists in their own right. This is something many artists aspire to achieve, and it is amazing that we can afford this opportunity in behalf of elementary-aged flourishing newcomers.”
Gallery director Caroline Szozda-McGowan said she is always delighted to hang this show of students works as she has in past years when managing the former Delavan Art Gallery.
“The display of some 90 works covers a spectrum of different mediums including prints, clay, glass, collage, painting, chalk and drawings in finished dimensional pieces,” Szozda-McGowan said. “I’m proud to be a part of this unique event that brings student art into focus within the arts community. It helps students to see that all art can be appreciated and it provides viewers with a glimpse of the up and coming talent that the city has to offer.”
Szozda Gallery is located just a block beyond Armory Square and is free and open to the public. Off-street parking is available and the gallery is handicapped accessible. Regular gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Reach the gallery at 579-2805 or szozdagallery.com.
