A partnership between the Harn Museum of Art and the Alachua County school system is breeding the next generation of student Picassos.
More than 100 pieces of "everyday art" by Alachua County student artists from kindergarten through 12th grade are on display in the Chandler Auditorium until May 17.
The exhibit features artwork from about 30 schools, with pieces such as landscape paintings, collages, photographs and hand-printed robes inspired by African textiles.
"This partnership represents the Harn Museum's continuing relationship with the Alachua County school system and supports the museum's mission to promote the power of the arts to inspire and educate people and enrich their lives," said Bonnie Bernau, director of education at the Harn.
"[It] provides the museum with an excellent opportunity to celebrate student artists and the dedication of local art teachers while endorsing our mutual dedication to ensuring that the arts are an important part of children's lives," Bernau said.
The displayed artwork represents the climax of a full year of study, which included a teacher workshop in the fall, a guided visit to the Harn for students and classroom instruction about using the museum's educator resource unit.
"Student artists were inspired by good teaching and by seeing real art," Berneau said. "One artist always influences another."
A reception was held on April 23 to recognize students whose work is featured in the exhibition. More than 200 people attended the reception, including parents, art teachers and school principals in an effort to support the arts.
At the reception, students received certificates from their art teachers.
Florida Capital Bank sponsored the exhibit and reception and will select 21 student works to display in the bank's office for a year after the exhibit closes.
Justine Michael, a senior at F.W. Buchholz High School in Gainesville, has her photograph of paint peeling off of a wall on display.
"I wanted to be able to show a different perspective of something people see every day and to make them think," she said.
"It felt great when I saw my artwork on display," Michael said. "Just having it among the art of great people is an amazing thought."
