It's not every day high school students have the chance to show off their talent in a professional setting.

But during Emergence, that's exactly what happens.

Sixty local high school students will have their art work, whether it be paintings, drawings, sculptures or mixed media, displayed in the Art Gallery of Sudbury's main-level exhibition space during the show, which runs March 7 to April 7.

“Personally, it's my favourite,” said Rose-Anne Cardinal.

The education co-ordinator at the AGS said “it's super important” for young artists interested in pursuing the genre to have accomplishments like this under their belt.

“They don't realize how important it can be to their development,” Cardinal said.
When Cardinal was a high school student herself, she recalls having a piece in the show.

“It's a big deal,” she said. It's one of a few times when artistic students get real praise for their efforts.

“You don't get an art trophy,” Cardinal said.

Haley Cassio said she is anxious to see her work hanging in the professional gallery space.

The Lockerby Composite School student, who graduated in January but returned for an extra semester, used acrylics to create a portrait using shades of orange and red. She topped it off by adding elements of blue around the subject's detailed face.

“I'm really happy with the way it turned out,” she said.

Thylane is the first piece she has submitted for a show. She said she is honoured her work has been chosen to be shown along with some of her peers' best work.

Students from 13 local schools participated in Emergence by submitting their best selections. Of the hundreds of submissions, jurors Dineen Worth, Rosie Maddock and Dennis Castellan had a hard time narrowing down the field.

“There are so many good works,” Cardinal said.

On top of gaining portfolio experience, the show gives students the chance to be part of the local arts community. Having cash prizes up for grabs doesn't hurt either.

For the first time ever, the contest has also taken a digital spin. By posting photos to Instagram, using the hashtag #agsemergence, students can show off their art as well as their inspiration for a chance to win a photo session for them and a friend.

For more information, stop by the AGS or visit artsudbury.org.