SOBA presents High School Art Show at Bluffton Library

Artwork by students from three Beaufort County high schools will be featured this spring as part of the annual High School Art Show presented by Society of Bluffton Artists.

The student exhibition will be on display from April 2 through May 8 at the Bluffton Public Library, located at 120 Palmetto Way. A public reception honoring the student artists is scheduled for 11 a.m. April 11 at the library.

Participating schools this year include Bluffton High School, May River High School and Cross School. The exhibit features a range of artistic disciplines, including photography, digital media, ceramics, drawing and painting, reflecting the scope of visual arts instruction at each school.

“SOBA’s mission is to provide art education and art appreciation to the local community,” said Lynn Newsom, an event organizer for the Society of Bluffton Artists. “With this annual high school art show, we’re able to give students an opportunity for public recognition for their talents and achievements, similar to that given to student athletes, science projects, and music concerts.”

Cross School will present work from five students, showcasing digital photography, digital painting and digital mixed media. John Cullinen, arts teacher at Cross Upper School, said the school’s arts program continues to expand.

Bluffton High School will also feature work from five students, with pieces representing media arts, photography, ceramics, drawing and painting. The school’s art department offers four focused areas of study — photography and media arts, drawing, ceramics and painting — allowing students to specialize and pursue advanced coursework, including college-level classes.

At May River High School, the visual arts program emphasizes foundational skills while encouraging personal artistic development, said Beth Schlieger, chair of the school’s fine arts department.

“From utilitarian to aesthetic, students have created works for the SOBA Art Show that both reflect who they are while responding to the intended audience,” Schlieger said.

The exhibition is free and open to the public during regular Bluffton Public Library hours. Additional information about the Society of Bluffton Artists and its programs is available at www.sobagallery.com.