On Wednesday, May 28, Redwood’s small gym was transformed for the third annual Redwood Arts Festival, showcasing work from students across the art department. Led by art teachers Susanne Maxwell, Bradford Butler and Lauren Bartone, the festival featured the work of Advanced Placement (AP) Art and Design 3D, AP Art and Design 2D, Drawing and Painting, Ceramics, Photography, Honors Photography and AP Art History students.
The arts festival offers arts students an opportunity to proudly showcase their work. Maxwell noted the value of such an opportunity for her students.
“It’s a moment for [artists] to shine. Athletes have games. This is the one time of year when these students get to shine,” Maxwell said.
AP Ceramics student, senior Jaque Thier, whose work is featured in the exhibit, spoke about how the festival connects those around her.
“[The festival] shows off a lot of different people’s work, [giving] everyone the opportunity to be seen from a bunch of different classes. I think that’s really special,” Thier said. “There’s so much great art in here, and I love it.”
While senior Sophia Rubel is not currently a part of the arts program, she appreciates the value of artistic expression from her peers.
“I think it’s amazing that [these students] can use art as an outlet and express it in this way,” Rubel said. “I think that all of these paintings [and] mediums of art that people are using are super cool, and it’s a great opportunity that Redwood offers this.”
Maxwell commented on the unique role that the festival plays in bringing together the Redwood community.
“There’s something about all the different ideas, hard work, and creativity — when you put it all together and see it, it’s definitely a source of joy,” Maxwell said.
The festival is open to all Redwood students and community members until May 30, with a reception from 5-7 p.m. on May 29. Come see the work of the Redwood community in action!
