Young artists honored at Bluffton 8th grade juried art show

The creative talents of Bluffton’s eighth-grade students took center stage May 8 during a reception at the Bluffton Library celebrating the 2025 Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show.

Families, teachers and community members joined organizers to recognize the top student artists selected for this year’s exhibition.

Dr. Frank Rodriguez, superintendent of the Beaufort County School District, was unable to attend due to personal reasons. In his place, Celestine LeVan, executive director for elementary schools, presented awards to the winners on behalf of the district.

Elijah McGough of H.E. McCracken Middle School earned first place in the juried category for his pencil drawing titled Think Tank. His piece was selected by a three-judge panel from the Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA).

In the People’s Choice category, Mason Trezza of Cross Schools received 119 of the 275 votes cast during April by Bluffton Library patrons, securing the top spot with his artwork.

SOBA’s judges also awarded four honorable mentions this year, citing the overall quality of submissions as a reason to expand beyond the traditional top three awards. Organizers said future shows will likely include honorable mentions as a permanent feature.

Support for this year’s show came from several local businesses and individuals including The Great Frame Up in Plantation Park who provided professional mounting for all 30 selected pieces and Buf’s of Beaufort supplied handcrafted ribbons specially made for the event. The Bluffton Library hosted the show and supported event logistics throughout the year. Organizers thanked library staff Kitty McKean and Elayna Gladstone for their ongoing involvement. Karen Richards, president of SOBA, was also recognized for assembling the panel of professional judges.

Art teachers from four area schools were commended for their contributions to the show: Tara Morris of H.E. McCracken Middle School, William James of Bluffton Middle School, Pam Donahue and Alexandra Von Tersch of River Ridge Academy, and Arianna Craig of Cross Schools.

“We’re grateful to the students, teachers and school leaders who made this event possible,” said show coordinator Ananta “Art” Gopalan. “Their enthusiasm and support keep the program strong.”

Now in its annual run, the Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show continues to grow in scope and participation. The show not only celebrates emerging young artists but also reinforces the importance of arts education in local schools.

“This event wouldn’t be possible without the artwork submitted by these talented students,” Gopalan said. “We’re already looking forward to seeing what next year’s show will bring.”