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Hundreds of imaginative works created by Detroit Public Schools students, including amazing pieces of art from students from Western International High School, Neinas Elementary School, Clippert Academy, Academy of the Americas, and Amelia Earhart Elementary-Middle School, are now on display in the 75th annual Detroit Public Schools Student Exhibition at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA).
The exhibition, on view April 28–June 3, 2012, is free with museum admission. An opening reception for students and their families was held Saturday, April 28, from 1 to 3 p.m. The Charter One Foundation is supporting the special anniversary of the DPS show this year.
Students from dozens of schools in grades K–12 submitted paintings, prints, drawings, photography, ceramics, videos, jewelry and other work to a jury of local artists, DPS officials and a DIA representative, which determined the works that will be in the show.
“This is our 75th year of showcasing art created by talented Detroit Public Schools students,” said Graham W.J. Beal, DIA director. “Students work hard on their art projects, and we’re happy to be able to share their talent with our visitors. The students’ involvement, as well as that of their teachers and families, plants the seeds of a long-term love of the arts.”
Some of the students’ artwork are featured on an exhibition poster, invitation postcard, bookmark and checklist booklet.
The poster features Line Designs, a painting by Christina Cervantes, a sixth-grader at Clippert Academy.
“The children of this community are extremely talented, and they produce amazing art work, so I think it is wonderful that they have the opportunity to display their work in the Detroit Institute of Arts,” said Ruth Goldfaden, Art Teacher at Clippert Academy. “This experience is one which fills them, and their families, with so much joy and so much pride. I am sure this has a very positive impact on them not only for today but for well in to the future,” she said.
The students are raving about the opportunity.
“I feel very proud to have my painting hanging in the Detroit Institute of Arts. It also feels really good to be able to represent my culture in a positive way,” said Angela Gutiérrez, Grade 7, Clippert Academy.
“Everybody knows that my art work is in the DIA with all the famous artists. My family is so proud,” said Carlos Estrella, Grade 7, Clippert Academy.”
"I was so happy. My family came with me. I got a gold medal and I talked to a lot of people,” said Naomi West, grade 5 of Amelia Earhart Elementary-Middle School.
Teachers and district officials say the students’ tremendous talent have earned them the honor to showcase their work.
“The students took great pride in their artwork, and it was very exciting for them to see it displayed at the D.I.A.,” said Barbara Nichols, Art Teacher at Earhart.
“I’m not surprised to see this talent in Detroit Public Schools,” said Emergency Manager Roy Roberts, addressing the students at the reception. “To see these young people express themselves and find their voices is incredible.”
The 75th Detroit Public Schools Student Exhibition was organized by the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Detroit Public Schools, and is made possible with support from the Charter One Foundation and the Ruth R. Cattell Education Endowment Fund. Additional support was provided by the City of Detroit.
“We’re thrilled to have Charter One be a part of this exciting exhibit,” said Sandy Pierce, president of Charter One and RBS Citizens, Michigan. “Through art, youth develop and increase their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is a wonderful program.”
Hours and Admission: Museum hours are 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Fridays, and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors ages 62+, $4 for ages 6–17, and free for DIA members. For membership information call (313) 833-7971.
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