GRAND RAPIDS – Traditional art from Thornapple Kellogg High School artists is now on view at Kent ISD.   Photography, paintings, graphite drawings and ceramic art can be viewed in the lobby at 2930 Knapp NE during business hours now through April 3.

The student artists in grades 9-12, taught by Thornapple Kellogg High School art teachers Tonya Woods and Barb Maring, have been studying portraits and self expression. Students studied the work of Frida Kahlo as they explored the concept of identity. They also learned about facial proportions and included personal symbolism in painted and photographed self portraits. Other students expressed their inventive thinking and created pieces showing ordinary objects in new and unusual ways.

“Using a combination of art history and new skill sets, we encourage students to delve deep into creative thinking and problem solving to come up with unique creations,” says Woods.

The Thornapple Kellogg High School art display is one of a series during the year from schools within Kent ISD.  Other districts with lobby displays this year include East Kentwood, East Grand Rapids and Caledonia High School. South Christian High School will have a display in April, followed by Kenowa Hills in May.

Kent ISD also participates in Representative Vern Ehlers’ annual Congressional Arts Competition, serving as local judges and occasionally offering purchase awards to student winners.