Next Generation of Creatives Takes Over the Walls at the DIA: The 88th Annual DPSCD Student Art Exhibition Opens on April 18.

‘Whispers of the Crimson Rose’, Kharee Payton, grade 12

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) proudly debuts the 88th Annual Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Student Art Exhibition, a cherished tradition that celebrates the vision and talent of the city’s next generation of creatives. On view from April 18 through May 25, the exhibition will shine both on-site, in the museum’s first-floor Wayne and Joan Webber Education Wing, and online, inviting the entire community to experience the power of student expression from anywhere.

Salvador Salort-Pons, Director of the Detroit Institute of Arts, highlighted being honored to continue the longstanding partnership with DPSCD through this annual exhibition.

“It’s a vibrant testament to the creativity and imagination of Detroit’s students, and reflects our ongoing commitment to arts education in our community,” Salort-Pons said.

Now in its 88th year, this celebrated exhibition represents the longest-standing collaboration between the DIA and an educational institution. It showcases 232 exceptional student artworks selected from across 38 DPSCD schools. The pieces span an impressive range of media, from paintings, drawings, and prints to ceramics, photography, jewelry, video, and more, each created by K–12 students whose talent shines through every piece.

Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Superintendent of the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), highlighted that featuring the talents of student artists at a prestigious museum like the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is an incredible opportunity for them. This initiative also reflects the District’s ongoing commitment to restoring, protecting, and enhancing education.

“We know how much this means to our students, staff, and students’ families. We deeply appreciate DIA’s long term commitment of 88 years through this program,” Vitti said.

For more details, including access to the virtual gallery, visit dia.org.

Admission to the DIA is always free for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.

About Post Author

Amber Ogden, Staff Writer

Amber Ogden, a native of Detroit, is an experienced journalist with investigative reporting, feature writing, and multimedia storytelling skills. She covers various topics related to the Black community, from human interest stories to racial injustices to community happenings. Amber is currently a staff writer and can be reached via email at aogden@michronicle.com.

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