Artists reveal the beauty of their imagination on canvas

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Photo by Lindsey Poorman

The art and photo display celebrates all masters of the easel and camera.

Story by Samantha Wong, Editor in Chief

   Calling all artists and photographers: the Juried Art and Photography Show is coming to the San Marcos Community Center. Juried exhibits are the perfect place to showcase one’s artwork and gain exposure to the creative world. Tackling a  new project can get your creativity flowing and inspire you to master your craft or gain a new angle.

   “Creativity and imagination allows people to create the impossible. Everything we have comes from imagining it. I love to draw and paint and just show how creative or artistic I am. Juried art shows sound really cool and I would love to see all the different art and photography,” Layla Azhar (9) said.

   Artists submitted work in various styles ranging from oils and acrylics to watercolors and pastels, sketches, and mixed media. Photograph submissions feature original prints from film or digital camera. San Marcos artists submitted their entries around mid-February, completing a series of evaluations in order to be displayed.

If you want to be serious about photography or art you will only get better if you practice, ask for feedback, and reflect on how you can do better. Be humble and willing to learn how to improve your craft,

— Ms. Sokolowski

   “I like photography because it’s an act of self-reflection and expression. My perceived level of creativity doesn’t matter because it’s the act of doing that counts. I get my inspiration from music and current societal expectations such as body types, styles, gender roles or makeup,” Hannah Cosgrove (12) said. 

   A ceremony for the artists was held at the San Marcos Community Center on March 5. During the ceremony, cash prizes, varying in amount, were given to first, second, and third place, as well as best in show. The artwork will be displayed fron March 2 to April 30 at the community center. 

   “Photography has taught me how to appreciate the world around me. I would tell aspiring photographers or artists to keep shooting and always think about what you are communicating through your work. If you want to be serious about photography or art you will only get better if you practice, ask for feedback, and reflect on how you can do better. Be humble and willing to learn how to improve your craft,” said Ms. Sokolowski, the digital photography teacher. 

  Artists and photographers work hours—sometimes days and weeks— to create and perfect their projects. The exhibit is free and is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Come support local artists and photographers on their creative journey at the community center on 3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069.