Explore Student Art with PVCC
Each semester, PVCC assembles a collection of student art to showcase the hard work and dedication of students taking various art classes. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it has become a bit more complicated for students to take in-person art classes or have their works displayed in their usual gallery in the Dickinson building — that is why PVCC’s annual Student Art Exhibition 2021 is available online.
“This year, the students and faculty had the ongoing challenge of translating studio art classes to a virtual format while also making special accommodations so that some classes could safely return to in-person teaching,” says Fenella Belle, a fine art faculty member at PVCC, in the exhibition’s introduction. “Everyone has had to be flexible, understanding and patient. Yet, in spite of ‘the Covid challenge,’ our students have persisted in making interesting and quality work, all while practicing their newly learned artistic skills. See for yourself the results of their grit, determination and talent in our second virtual student exhibition.”
Low Poly Cat by Laura Ravenhorst 
Old Bike by Karen Siegrist 
Collage by Kaz Smith 
Low Poly Pet by Olivia Miller
Photos courtesy of PVCC
Rather than guests perusing hallways full of picture frames, display cases, sculptures, and video displays, a virtual collection on PVCC’s website showcases student art with five pages of clean, professional pictures. From ceramic cats, polygonal pigeons, and digitally edited lightsabers to illustrated haikus, pixel art, and painted portraits, the Student Art Exhibit is an impressively diverse collection. Each piece, made with a different medium, style, and artistic vision, gives insight into the various lives and minds of students throughout PVCC.
Though showcasing art online presents unique challenges, it also has unique benefits. A virtual exhibition is accessible from one’s own house — no need to travel to campus to see it. For students with far away family members or limited transportation, being able to see their work displayed from the comfort of their own homes can be a blessing.
“We hope this virtual format allows you to share this exhibition far and wide with friends and family,” said Belle.
As PVCC mourns the death of Professor Beryl Solla, the Student Art Exhibition is a valuable continuation of her work and passion for art. Belle acknowledged this aspect of the exhibition, urging virtual guests to keep the tradition of art and chocolate alive.
“We are proud to highlight and celebrate the beautiful and indomitable creative spirit of our students and Beryl herself,” said Belle. “I highly recommend sitting down with your favorite piece of chocolate and feasting!”
