This Thursday, young artists from the East metro area will get a taste of what it’s like to be a part of a professional art exhibition, when the Emerging Young Artists – Saint Paul program holds its opening reception and award show for the young creatives that are participating.
Inspiration and Aspirations
“I’ve always wanted to have my art put in a gallery,” says Milo Wepplo, an eighth grader at Avalon School, a project-based charter school in Saint Paul. Wepplo’s “The Loon,” a captivating triptych painting, showcases a loon silhouetted by the moon’s glow, a piece completed in just four days to meet the submission deadline. Isobel Williamson, another Avalon student, shares her experience creating “Organized Chaos,” a piece reflecting the stress of her family’s sudden move from their apartment. These stories of young talent and resilience highlight the importance of platforms like the Emerging Young Artists – Saint Paul program in nurturing future artists.
A Legacy Continued
The program, which turns 50 this year, has seen a transformation since its inception as the Les Farrington Best 100 Juried Art Exhibition. Despite the St. Paul Jaycees chapter closing in 2020, the Saint Paul Jaycees Charitable Foundation has ensured the continuation of this cherished event. The partnership with COMPAS, as highlighted by trustee Lisa Hiebert and executive director Dawne Brown White, marks a new chapter in the program’s history, aiming to expand and enrich the legacy left by the Jaycees. With 82 students submitting 571 art pieces this year, the program’s impact and reach are more significant than ever.
Looking Towards the Future
The upcoming gallery opening at the Landmark Center not only serves as a professional platform for these young artists but also as a testament to the program’s enduring legacy and its potential for future growth. Brown White’s vision of transforming the Emerging Young Artists – Saint Paul program into a statewide event underscores the broader ambition of recognizing and celebrating young talent across Minnesota. As we look forward to the exhibition, it’s clear that this event is more than just an art show; it’s a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and a reminder of the vibrant artistic talent brewing in our communities.
With the Landmark Center set to host the exhibition until April 28, this event promises to be a pivotal moment in the lives of these young artists, offering them a glimpse into the professional art world. As the community gathers to celebrate half a century of artistic expression and encouragement, we’re reminded of the power of art to inspire, challenge, and transform. The Emerging Young Artists – Saint Paul program stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and the importance of nurturing the next generation of artists.
