Caption: Entrance of 3rd Annual Wayne County High School Art Exhibition at DIA
Art enthusiasts can explore the future of art at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) during the 3rd Annual Wayne County High School Art Exhibition, running until July 21, 2024. This unique exhibition showcases the creativity and skill of high school students across Wayne County, featuring over 80 diverse artworks. From striking paintings and mixed-media pieces to photography, each piece demonstrates these young artists’ immense talent and unique perspectives.
Salvador Salort-Pons, DIA Director, is thrilled to continue the tradition and provide a life-changing platform for Wayne County’s budding artists.
“The Detroit Institute of Arts is deeply committed to fostering educational opportunities and takes immense pride in nurturing and inspiring our future artists,” Salort-Pons said.
Students in grades 9 to 12 from Wayne County from public, charter, private, or home schools could submit artwork for the show. DIA educators chose the pieces from over 200 entries.
Akylah Archer, a highly accomplished and creative senior at Wayne Memorial High School, was selected to showcase her exceptional artwork. Archer was recently accepted to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Studio Art at Michigan State University.
“This piece is primarily about being comfortable with yourself and coming out of your own shell. As you can see, the bird coming out of the frame expresses that,” Archer said. “I have experienced being uncomfortable coming out of my own shell, especially as a teenager.”
Caption: Akylah Archer, Release, Wayne Memorial High School, Amber Thomas, Acrylic Paint
Archer recalls that her close friend, Crystal Phan, also a graduating senior from Wayne Memorial High School, whose artwork is also showcased in the collection, significantly influenced her to prioritize and pursue her passion for art.
Emma Garcia, a talented and enthusiastic sophomore at Belleville High School, was inspired to pursue her passion for art by her art teacher, Ms. Sych.
“As soon as I got the email, I literally ‘ran’ to the art room to tell her (Ms. Sych); I had never been so proud! Ever since then, I’ve fallen even more in love with ceramics,” Garcia said.
During the opening ceremony, Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans emphasized the profound influence of art, emphasizing its capacity to enrich lives, convey narratives, impart knowledge, and foster unity within communities.
“These high school students have worked hard; we’re extremely proud of their accomplishments. Having their art displayed at the Detroit Institute of Arts speaks to each student’s artistic ability and their level of creativity,” Evans said.
“This is an experience these talented young artist will always remember, and we are honored to experience their work and this moment with them.”
All residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties always receive free admission to the DIA. For information visit dia.org
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