The Tri-County Junior/Senior High School Art Exhibition marks its 50th anniversary, signifying a milestone for South Shore Arts in celebrating young artists. This event showcases the talent of students from LaPorte, Lake, Porter, and Southern Cook Counties.
This year's exhibition showcases the involvement of 32 schools, comprising seven middle schools and 25 high schools. “We think there is an important role in celebrating art at this age group...to ensure that art in the future continues to be an important part of our community,” said South Shore Arts Executive Director David Mika.
Celebrating this milestone, the Tri-County Exhibition has expanded its gallery space, now spanning over 5000 square feet in South Shore Arts’ Main and Atrium Galleries. “These spaces exhibit almost 1000 students' work from 32 different schools; there aren't too many art shows that celebrate student art the way this one does.” Said Mika.
This year's exhibition stands out with over $10,000 in prizes, including scholarships and cash awards, supported by generous donors. Gallery Manager Brandon Johnson says, “We've had a huge amount of support from community and corporate donors, which allows us to put on the biggest amount of cash awards for the Tri-county Exhibit.”
Beyond the recognition and awards, the exhibition provides validation of their talents and aspirations. "It's showing that a professional organization values your art, it speaks differently once it's in an actual location like this," said Johnson.
As Indiana's cultural landscape continues to evolve, events like the Tri-County Junior-Senior High School Art Exhibition serve as a testament to the vibrancy and potential of young artists in the Midwest. "Indiana is often thought of stereotypically as this cultural wasteland devoid of anything but corn, and events like this show that is so far from the truth," Johnson said.
Looking ahead, South Shore Arts remains committed to celebrating the artistic talent of the region's youth, recognizing the pivotal role arts education has in shaping the future of our communities.
The Awards Ceremony for the Tri-County Exhibition will be held on Sunday, May 5 at 1:00 p.m. South Shore Arts will also host a free Family Arts Fest with art workshops, demonstrations, face painting, caricature drawing and more at 11:00 a.m. and will conclude at 3:00 p.m. with the Northwest Indiana Symphony Youth Orchestra’s spring concert in the Theatre.
The 50th Annual Tri-County Junior/ Senior High School Exhibition is in the gallery through May 12, 2024. South Shore Arts Gallery is located at The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, IN. The Gallery and Gift Shop is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 12 to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Gallery is closed on Tuesdays.