From Bluffton High School
The Society of Bluffton Artists’ (SOBA) annual High School Art Show will return from February 3-28. This much-anticipated exhibition showcases the creative works of talented students from Bluffton High School, Cross High School, and May River High School. The public is invited to celebrate these young artists at a reception from 3-5 p.m. Saturday, February 8, at the SOBA Gallery, located at 6 Church Street in Old Town Bluffton.
“SOBA’s mission is to provide art education and art appreciation to the local community,” said Lynn Newsom, SOBA event organizer. “With this annual high school art show, we’re able to give students an opportunity for public recognition for their talents and achievements, the same that is given to student athletes, science projects, and music concerts.”
The exhibit provides students with a platform to display their creativity in a professional gallery setting while offering the community a chance to appreciate the next generation of artists. Participating students have created works across a variety of mediums, reflecting their unique voices and artistic growth.
Kristen Munroe, Visual Arts Teacher at Bluffton High School, emphasized the value of this event for her students. “This yearly show is a big event for us, especially as a means of exposing students to the real-world gallery experience of the professional artist,” she said. Bluffton High’s diverse program includes Ceramics, Drawing, Media Arts, Painting, and Photography, giving students the opportunity to explore and refine their creative talents.
Elizabeth Schlieger, AP Studio Art and Visual Art Educator and Fine Arts Department Chair at May River High School, highlighted her students’ commitment to artistic exploration. “Our visual art department strives to develop a strong foundation in art and design while giving students opportunities to refine their skills as they develop their voices as young artists,” she said. A student participating in the exhibit shared, “Ceramics is a great outlet for my creative energy. Creating the stamps for these mugs was a real learning experience, and I was really happy with the final results.”
Cross School’s growing arts program will showcase a range of works in photography, digital painting, and traditional media. “We are excited to participate again this year and appreciate the opportunity to showcase our work in the community,” said a Cross School representative. This year’s exhibition demonstrates the school’s commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression among its students.
The reception on February 8 will be an opportunity for the public to meet these talented young artists, view their work, and learn more about the vibrant art education programs offered at their schools.
