In the Gallery
“Art is a reflection of a person’s ideas, passions, and intellect — and it should be shared and appreciated,” TPHS art teacher Jennifer Doerrer said.
Some TPHS students are doing just that — sharing their art. But instead of in the classroom, they are finding local galleries and exhibits to display their creations. Through this experience, students can authentically express themselves with freedom and depth, and they can elevate their passion for art to a higher, more professional level.
Lorenzo Ipson (10) is one such student. Ipson, who took Digital Art and Design last year, displayed his art at the Explorations: 17th Annual Juried Youth exhibition in the San Diego Museum of Art. He utilizes Photoshop to create virtual art pieces.
“I like how you’re not limited by what you’re able to draw and you can use pictures and things other people have made — making something beautiful out of what is given to you,” Ipson said.
Ipson also draws particular inspiration from his experiences with the environment.
“I used to ski and drive out to the desert, and these experiences with nature helped a lot,” Ipson said. “I connect a lot of my artwork to my personal life as well.”
Similarly, the photography of Sebastian Searcy (11) — an Advanced Digital Art and Design student who displayed his photography at the TPHS 50th Anniversary Celebration at Farmer & The Seahorse on March 23 — centers on his passions.
“My biggest inspiration for my art is my interest and love for nature, as well as photography,” Searcy said. “I find wildlife interesting, and the career of wildlife photography seems like an awesome job.”
Art, then, offers a window into the eyes of young artists and their experiences and interests. It transcends language boundaries or limitations — especially when it’s displayed in environments outside of school.
“You’re able to really express yourself and show people what you’re thinking rather than be limited to verbal communication,” Ipson said. “In a museum, there are people you would never know and who don’t know you personally, so you’re able to freely express your artwork without hesitation.”
This importance of exhibiting artwork is quite universally recognized. Sadie Brecheen (9), another Digital Art and Design student who showcased art at the TPHS 50th Anniversary Celebration, thinks exhibitions are specifically important for advancing a potential career in art.
“Showcasing [art] gives important real world experience and interactions that you won’t simply get from a purely school environment,” Brecheen said.
Searcy agreed.
“It’s important for students to get their art involved outside of school because that is where art can find real success,” Searcy said. “If someone wants to build a career or make money off of their art, they should definitely get out there and showcase their work.”
Doerrer also encourages her students to showcase their skills beyond the school environment.
“I think it’s important for students to exhibit their work in order to share their work with others and take pride in what they have created,” Doerrer said.
Sharing artwork in exhibits has not only fostered students’ creativity and prospective careers in art, but it has created a sense of unity between classmates.
“I feel proud of my classmates, and it’s nice to see what other people are thinking and how they interpret the prompts and express themselves in the art,” Ipson said.
Photos by Hope Dennis/Falconer
