Harper showcases best student artwork from Districts 211, 214, 220

Student artists from across the Northwest suburbs exhibited their work at the 2009 Harper College Regional High School Art Show -- an annual, vibrant display of 2D and 3D pieces, from photography to sculpture.

The roughly 500 submissions, representing 10 schools from districts 211, 214 and 220, were chosen by the high schools' art teachers.

Students from Barrington and John Hersey high schools emerged as the show's top honorees: Justin Lynk of Hersey won the Harper Faculty Award in the 2D category for his photography entry, and Lexy Fischer of Barrington High School scored the Harper Faculty Award in the 3D category for her sculpture.

Both were honored with scholarships at a reception held Dec. 2.

Art teachers from the participating schools also chose first-, second- and third-place winners -- as well as honorable mention recipients -- in both the 2D and 3D categories from each high school.

The contest "is a way to get our high school students even more excited about art, and also to showcase our facility," said Harper Assistant Professor Stephany Rimland, who helped coordinate the show.

"This art show encourages the arts, and it also specifically encourages arts at Harper College."

The Dec. 2 reception allowed student artists and parents to browse the submitted entries, see Harper's art department and meet Harper art faculty. Dr. Kenneth Ender, Harper's president, also was there to hand out the two Harper Faculty Awards.

Fremd High School Art Teacher Paul Radek, who helped coordinate the show, said the Harper show provides students the chance to exhibit their work alongside those from other schools and suburbs. The show also, he says, reminds students and parents of Harper's strong art program.

The schools that participated are Barrington, Buffalo Grove, Elk Grove, Conant, Fremd, John Hersey, Palatine, Prospect, Rolling Meadows and Wheeling.