UPDATE: Leominster High School students made a remarkable debut at the Sterling Arts Collaborative fall exhibit, showcasing their artwork on November 8 and 9 at the historic 1835 Town Hall in Sterling. This inaugural participation marks a significant milestone for both students and teachers, including art department head Shelly Saben and her colleague Linnea Romhanyi.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students,” Saben stated. “They get to see their work displayed alongside accomplished adult artists, which instills pride and accomplishment.” The event featured a diverse range of artwork, including pieces from artists as young as elementary school students to a remarkable contributor over the age of 99.
Among the talented students whose artwork was spotlighted are juniors Lola Couture, Ivan Kaidalin, and Huynh Tran, as well as seniors Sid Imbriani, Kenzie Moyen, Avin Ruiz, Erin Sargent, Natalie Smith, and sophomore Sophie Lopez from the Leominster Center for Technical Education Innovation (CTEi).
The exhibit’s impact on the community was palpable, with attendees expressing admiration for the creativity showcased. “It was impressive to see the artists engage with the audience, discussing their inspirations and techniques,” the Sterling Arts Collaborative shared on social media.
Saben, who hung her own painting titled “Kids Boots” alongside a piece by her mother, relayed her emotional journey to finding her artistic voice again after years of teaching. “Exhibiting my work was something I hadn’t prioritized, but my mother encouraged me to share my creations with the community,” she reflected.
The event is expected to pave the way for further collaborations between LHS and the Sterling Arts Collaborative, broadening exposure for the students to the vibrant local arts community. “We are eager to explore more opportunities for our students to shine,” Saben added.
As the local art scene continues to flourish, the success of this exhibit resonates beyond the walls of the gallery, inspiring both students and residents alike to appreciate the value of art in everyday life.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Sterling Arts Collaborative as they plan future events to celebrate local talent. Follow their Facebook page for photos and details on upcoming shows.
