The annual Portland Public Schools district-wide Student Art Show at City Hall is kicking off with a celebratory reception on Friday, May 2, in conjunction with the May First Friday Art Walk.  The event will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The exhibit will be on display until May 16, enabling the public to enjoy student artwork from all schools in the district on display.

This annual student art show is a highlight of the year. At the Friday reception, teachers, administrators, families, students and other community members will come together to celebrate the talent of students and the dedication of the district’s art educators. This yearly show is a great opportunity to see the growth and development of students from their early art experiences in kindergarten through their senior year.

Each school has from 25 to 50 student artworks on display, including everything from collages and pastel drawings to pottery or acrylic paintings.

“The talent, creativity, and work ethic of our students shines bright in this show and celebrates the guidance, knowledge, and mentorship of our incredible art educators.” said Chad Hart, Deering High School art teacher and the district’s art coordinator. “Having an annual art show of such breadth and beauty, in a place that everyone in our community can see and admire, gives our students empowerment, confidence, and joy.” 

The Portland Public Schools is Maine’s largest school district, with nearly 6,500 students, and it’s also the most diverse. About one-third of the district’s students come from homes where languages other than English are spoken—a total of 59 languages. Approximately 47 percent of the district’s students are white and 53 percent are students of color. More than half of all PPS students are economically disadvantaged.