The Plains High School students of art teacher Kristen Cole’s classes displayed talent, perception and creativity on May 5 at the Student Art Exhibit outside the school gym.

Some chose patriotism as their inspiration; others used a cowboy/western theme for their work. Many went for fantasy or religion, abstractions reminiscent of Jackson Pollock, or simply expressing deeply felt emotions. Some students entered many pieces; others entered only one.

“I started the show when I first started teaching, about 17 years ago,” said Cole. “We have a great space to create in but it felt a little isolated, and my main objective was to bring the artwork down so that everyone could see what they were doing.”

There were all types of art being represented: paintings and drawings, sculptures and pottery, collages and wind chimes, writing and music. Art was even on the ceiling; the tiles are a permanent display that will be there for years to come.

In fact, Dustin Baker, a 17-year-old in the 11th grade, was on the piano and played music during the reception. He says his favorite kind of music is classical—Chopin is one of his favorite composers.

“I’ll always be a musician, but I won’t play for money,” he said. “I just want to make people happy.”

The music worked; it added to the atmosphere of appreciating and celebrating art. The attendees all had smiles on their faces as they walked around with punch and desserts in their hands, admiring the students’ efforts.

“I have been trying really hard to connect the school and the community together,” Cole said. “I want people in the community to come in and see what the students are doing because even though we are a small town, small school, we have amazing artists here. I’m trying to give them more exposure, more experience, and connect them with the community more.”

The art exhibit has become an annual event at the school, which is usually held at the beginning of May.