February 7, 2018

Image: Dean Smale, coordinator for the visual communications program stands among the art created by local high school students.

The third annual High School Art Exhibition is currently on display at the One on One Gallery in the Cultural Centre at Medicine Hat College (MHC).

Over 60 students from Crescent Heights, Eagle Butte, Medicine Hat and Monsignor McCoy high schools are competing for prizes which will be awarded at a reception on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2018 at 7 p.m.

Faculty from the visual communications program will select the winners based on criteria like technical ability, use of materials, creativity and/or originality.

“This year’s submissions are strong. We are excited to see the show grow and know that part of the reason this is happening is because of our partnership with the high school teachers. Their engagement has been great, they’ve been very receptive and positive to work with,” says Dean Smale, coordinator for the visual communications program.

Smale explains that providing the venue shows students that MHC is a local - and viable - option for them to pursue their passion for art and design.

“Staying in Medicine Hat has many benefits, not only from an economic standpoint but also the fact that it’s a smaller program so students are going to get more interaction with the faculty. It’s a friendly environment and there is a comradery here among students and their instructors. This event provides us an opportunity to welcome these young artists on campus and show them what the college can offer.”

The exhibition will be on display until Feb. 22, 2018. Smale encourages the community to attend the reception and see the creative culture that exists in our region.

For more information on the visual communications program or events happening at MHC visit www.mhc.ab.ca.

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Hat High student wins art competition

The annual High School Art Exhibition at One on One Gallery wrapped up last week with Chloe Komanchuk, a grade 12 student at Medicine Hat High School, winning the top prize.

“This year’s submissions were strong," says Dean Smale, coordinator for the visual communications program. "We selected Chloe's work for her superb technical facility, sensitive use of the medium, and its visual interpretation. Though it demonstrates a visual likeness of Twiggy, the interpretation goes beyond this to indicate a mood that is psychological."

Now in its third year, the annual exhibit showcased the work of over 60 students from Crescent Heights, Eagle Butte, Medicine Hat and Monsignor McCoy high schools. Faculty from MHC's visual communications program selected the winners based on criteria like technical ability, use of materials, creativity and/or originality.