Emerging Artist Series, pt 2 - October 2021

Every year, Gallery500 partners with Volusia County Schools for our VCS Student Exhibition. Gallery director Amber O’Neal & VCS Art Curriculum Specialist, Bryce Hammond, hand select the student work to be displayed in the juried competition. The exhibition has grown from 10 pieces in year 1 to over 30 works in the 3rd year of the exhibition. Gallery500 is honored to display the artwork of the brightest creative minds of Volusia County Schools.

A jury of leaders in the local art community selected a "Best in Show" and two “Honorable Mentions.” The "Best in Show" award winner and his or her respective school each received a $500 award for their excellence in the visual arts. Volusia County Schools have developed a reputation for cultivating incredible talent from their art students, receiving national rankings in art competitions at every level. This dedication to the arts is truly inspiring. The exhibition has grown immensely and we have decided to note two "Honorable Mentions" in addition to the "Best in Show." The work is just that good!

 

 

As a core goal of the gallery is to foster young artists, the students of the VCS Student Exhibition are the perfect entities for Gallery500’s second part of the Emerging Artist Series. Gallery Director Amber had the opportunity to speak with some of the students during the private Opening Reception of the exhibition back in September. Check out the video to learn more about the works in the exhibition, what inspires the students and how this exhibition influences their future in the arts. The exhibition is on display at Gallery500 through October 15th.

 

The VCS Student Exhibition is just the beginning of our support for VCS' Visual Arts. The larger fundraising event for Volusia County Schools, the ONE DAYTONA Art Festival, is set for this November 13th & 14th. Gallery500 is honored to co-host this event with ONE DAYTONA. Once again, the students take center stage. In 2020, the ONE DAYTONA Art Festival donated $15,000 to VCS' Visual Arts Program, affording the students the ability to grow their passion for the arts.

 

 

 

The ONE DAYTONA Art Festival is still accepting applications for artists. If you, or someone you know, is interested in displaying their works, apply here via Zapplication now through October 15th.

If you would like to donate to VCS Visual Arts Program, contact the gallery or click here. You can also purchase any of Lesa Kennedy’s works (click here) and a portion will be donated to VCS Visual Arts Program.