The style of youth

By: Samantha Scheeler, Contributing Writer 

The vibrant world of student art took center stage at the much anticipated Columbia College art show.

The Sidney Larson Gallery at Columbia College hosted the art show from Feb.10- March 8 at the campus art gallery. The show featured a wide range of paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed media, highlighting the diverse talents of local high school students.

Cheyenne Boggs, Georgia Gooding, Josie Hicks, Toby Miles, Natalie Mistkowski and Aurora Neighbors all had their art pieces entered in the art show. In addition to Centralia High School (CHS) other high schools such as Battle, Columbia Independent School, Hickman, Mexico and Rockbridge also had pieces exhibited in this art show. This show was a great opportunity for students to present their work in a professional setting. 

CHS Art teacher Mrs. Janet Neufeld was asked what her favorite artwork is. “Personally, I am drawn to artwork that is very unique, colorful, textured, detailed, complex and/or shows high contrast,” said Neufeld. 

This particular show provided Columbia College the opportunity to scout for talent amongst the high schools in the state of Missouri and award scholarships for the students outstanding work. Cash prizes were awarded to the top three artists in each category.  In addition to the top three winners of each category there was also the opportunity to win the faculty choice award. This student not only received a cash prize but also received a $2,000 dollar scholarship to Columbia College.

The exhibition offered invaluable experience and instilled confidence, while still pushing the students to explore their creative potential. Whether or not these students plan to pursue art after high school, this was a great opportunity for them to experience the world of art.  “It's also pretty exciting for the students to be able to see their artwork hanging in a real gallery with many other outstanding artists. An honor that they had for a whole month,” said Neufeld.