Clik here to view.
Clik here to view.
As sunlight streams through the tall windows of the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, the walls come alive with vibrant expressions of creativity and passion. Among the featured pieces are works by talented students from Stagg High School, each brushstroke and pencil mark a testament to their unique perspectives and artistic growth. This showcase, a blend of youthful energy and raw talent, highlights the skill of these young artists and invites the community to celebrate the next generation of creativity.
The gallery, located at 9602 W. Creek Road in Palos Park, featured the works of Stagg students from Jan. 6 through Jan. 25.
“It feels incredible to be noticed for a talent that I didn’t know I had,” said Stagg High School artist Jhocelin Sarmiento, 17, of Palos Park.
A reception was held for Sarmiento and her fellow students, along with their families on Friday, Jan. 24.
“We are honored to exhibit their works in our gallery,” Carol Trzcinski, executive director of McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, said. “Displaying their works of art in our gallery space allows students to see how art is truly appreciated and respected by others, and we hope it encourages them to continue.”
The 150 pieces on display were created by students in grades 9 through 12. The projects included drawings, paintings, photography, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and multimedia designs, all completed by first-semester students in the fall of 2024. The Stagg High School art faculty who instructed these students included Arwa Azhari, Wendy Meek, Julia Popper, and Barbara Urso.
Clik here to view.
“It is interesting and impressive to see the quality of work our students produce in our various art department courses,” Azhari said. “It is wonderful to see our students participate in the process of creating their own original artworks in all forms.”
Azhari said displaying student work in a professional exhibit elevates its significance beyond the classroom.
“It exposes students to the possibilities of where their artworks can go on an advanced level beyond display cases and school art shows,” Azhari said. “It is always a positive experience to exhibit in the community where the student work transcends beyond school.”
Stagg High School student Caspian DeBoer said her favorite part was the outcome.
“It’s really cool that we get to see everyone else’s work on display,” DeBoer, 17, of Palos Park, said.
Trzcinski agreed.
“Within the art department at school, students learned how to use media, tools, and technologies,” Trzcinski said. “They learned to shape ideas and emotions into images. As students create, they are problem-solving and learning to respond creatively to others. Through art, students learn about themselves and others.”
Stagg students shared similar sentiments.
“It was fun making my project and painting it,” said Julia Gonciarczyk, 17, of Palos Hills. “After spending all the time on the project, I like that it is appreciated, that people get to see it before it gets put on my shelf at home.”
Her classmate, Martyna Furczon, 17, of Bridgeview, said her favorite part of having her artwork on display at McCord was seeing the final project.
“I just like making art,” Furczon said. “I like the process of making it from beginning to end and seeing the result. Having the opportunity for others to see your work outside of home and school is surreal. I am a very private person, so it’s nice to see others appreciating my work.”
Clik here to view.
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