News Summary
Saddleback College held its annual student art exhibit, ‘Bloom,’ from April 27 to May 2, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks across various mediums. The exhibit celebrated themes of growth and creativity, featuring both individual and collaborative projects. Noteworthy pieces included a unique cyanotype artwork, musical instrument installations, and awards recognizing outstanding student talent. The event fostered community engagement and highlighted the artistic capabilities of the students, with a diverse range of works displayed by aspiring artists, capturing the essence of transformation and renewal.
Mission Viejo, CA – Saddleback College hosted its annual student art exhibit, titled “Bloom,” from April 27 to May 2 at the Fine Art Gallery. The exhibit showcased a diverse collection of student artworks across various disciplines, including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, and interior design.
The exhibit aimed to highlight the theme of growth, transformation, and renewal while allowing students to express their artistic talents. A wide range of works were displayed, featuring both individual and collaborative projects by aspiring student artists. The event attracted numerous visitors who experienced the creative expressions of students during the six-day showcase.
Among the notable contributors to the exhibit were siblings Gabriel and Sophia Ritterling, who presented their paintings, while their mother, Silvia Ritterling, showcased a striking black ceramic vase adorned with white and gold flowers. The family’s participation highlighted the overarching theme of family and creativity at the exhibit.
The exhibit was juried by Pueblo artist Virgil Ortiz alongside artist-in-residence Nat Center, who evaluated the artworks and selected category winners. In addition to the juried awards, faculty members recognized some outstanding works with Honorable Mentions, offering praise to those whose creations excelled in various aspects but did not receive juried recognition.
One of the standout pieces was Corbin Simmons’ artwork titled “Drowning,” which employed a cyanotype process to evoke the feeling of being submerged underwater. This piece was awarded the Purchase Award and will become part of Saddleback College’s permanent collection. Other notable awards included the Juror’s Award in jewelry, which went to Tamlin Barlowe for her copper and brass brooch depicting an aquatic bat ray against silver waves.
Hunter Ifearnán received an Honorable Mention for his innovative sculpture, “Commander’s Talon,” constructed from brass, merino wool, and leather, allowing it to double as a flexible glove. Another exhibit highlight was Bjorn Thelander’s “Chained Maiden,” a wearable art installation created with a mannequin and adorned with a wire crown.
This year’s exhibit also marked the introduction of musical instruments for the first time, with Shadow Abrami’s wooden harp, titled “Song of Dragons,” and Eli Charne’s “Ceramic Drum,” adding a new dimension to the art showcase.
Additionally, Sungmi Jung’s installation, “Welcome to my Wedding!”, creatively arranged porcelain figurines around a wedding ring accompanied by a colorful flower arch, encapsulated the celebratory spirit of the event. The exhibit culminated in awards recognition, with Gia Wahle being honored with the Best in Show Award for her remarkable black porcelain bowl featuring tentacle-like forms wrapping around its exterior.
Another accolade was the President’s Award, given to Sara Stevens for her digital photograph capturing the elegance of a ballerina. This award was selected by Saddleback College President Dr. Elliot Stern, demonstrating the college’s support for artistic endeavors within its student body.
The “Bloom” exhibit not only served as an excellent platform for student expression but also fostered community engagement, allowing visitors to appreciate the rich talents of emerging artists. The event successfully exemplified the diversity and creativity present within Saddleback College’s art programs, inviting a broader audience to recognize the artistic potential in all individuals.
In conclusion, the “Bloom” art exhibit at Saddleback College remains a testament to the vibrant student artistic community, encapsulating the essence of growth and transformation through creative expression.
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- Lariat News: Student Artists in Full Bloom at Saddleback College Exhibit
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- Google News: Art Exhibits
