BRATTLEBORO — The Arts Council of Windham County (ACWC) is celebrating 36 years of Student Arts Month, which takes place during the month of March.
Throughout the years, ACWC has celebrated blossoming young artists in Windham County while recognizing the teachers and school infrastructures that help these students flourish. The organization has partnered with venues, schools, and teachers to arrange activities featuring the work of young artists throughout Windham County.
Between eight and 10 county high schools, as well as many elementary and middle schools, participate in Student Art Month. There are approximately 300 pieces of art entered in the high school art show alone. Festivities begin with the opening of the High School Visual Art Show during the March Gallery Walk.
This year, the 2D works, including photography, will be hung at the River Garden Gallery, and the 3D works will be at Vermont Artisan Designs' Gallery 2 on the 2nd floor of the 106 Main Street space.
The shows will open at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, March 3, to coincide with Gallery Walk. There will be a reception at the River Garden from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This year's band, Bad To Be Good, is an Eastern Country and Northern Blues dance band. They are sharing the space this year with the Brattleboro Time Trade, who will be doing its fundraiser in the River Garden on the same evening.
Artwork created by high school students is judged by a panel of professional artists. Organizers will give awards for Best of Show in 11 categories and special commendations to many high school student artists.
Visitors can vote for their favorite pieces in the People's Choice Awards as the show continues throughout the month.