Art on display: Leavenworth Public Library hosts student art gallery

Wren Wilder’s watercolor painting inspired by "self love" was on display at the Leavenworth Public Library during the second half of April . Wilder hoped that the piece "express[ed] a simple, quiet and confident feeling." Photo credit: Ada Missal (10)

Between April 15 and May 2 art produced by a variety of students under the direction of Teara Dillon was displayed at the Leavenworth Public Library.  In addition to enjoying the varied pieces, members of the public were encouraged to leave comments for artists.

"Artemis" by Marit Hepler (9). Inspiration: "Awesome Greek goddesses." Photo credit: Ada Missal (10)  

 Under Dillon’s direction, students produced art in a variety of forms: digital, pencil and paper sketches, sculptures, painting and more.  Not only does Dillon guide these students through production, but she also seeks out and organizes opportunities for their art to be displayed professionally. “Not only creating but being able to present in a professional manner is very important as an artist,” Dillon said.

"Supra" by Miles Cuevas (9). Inspiration: "Supra." Photo credit: Ada Missal (10)

In partnership with the Leavenworth Public Library, for seventeen days the walls of the library were transformed into an original, vibrant art gallery featuring a variety of artistic modalities open to the community at large. “I really like seeing it out on the wall in a professional way, especially outside the school, because I know other people are also appreciating it-giving a sense of ownership and professionalism raising the level of value,” Dillon said.

"Refresh" by Madelyn Karol (9). Notes: “I wanted to create a piece that was inspired by my favorite lip product.” Photo credit: Ada Missal

“I feel like I've genuinely accomplished something, and I am the person my little middle-school self would look up to, having my art in the high school library art show,” Wilder said. 

 As a young child Wren Wilder (12) looked up to the artists she saw on display throughout the Leavenworth community and dreamt of presenting her art publicly.  This year, those dreams were made a reality.  “I feel like I've genuinely accomplished something, and I am the person my little middle-school self would look up to, having my art in the high school library art show,” Wilder said.

"Within Artist" by Wren Wilder (12). Notes: "Abstract freeform painting letting myself feel creative without constraints." Photo credit: Ada Missal (10)

Wilder credits the community, friends and family for eagerly supporting her creative dreams and pursuit of art.  Both her mother and Ms. Dillon have “inspir[ed] me on my journey and push[ed] me to take the steps to further my art,” Wilder said.