June 27–July 17
4th Street Window Gallery

The Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) 2021 Honors Visual Art Exhibition once again celebrates the skills, creativity, and achievements of student artists from each SPPS high school. The works on view demonstrate a variety of pathways to artistic self-discovery—from technical to playful, from highly personal to globally-minded.

This year’s exhibition showcases artworks created using a range of mediums, styles, and techniques. Como Park High School 11th grader, Izzie, delights viewers with Watercolor, a sensitive rendering of paint tubes executed masterfully in watercolor and gel marker. Central High School 9th grader, Naomi, created Precious Perched Pointillism Parrot, a detailed and colorful painting using a series of dots to create an image. In her artist statement, Naomi says “The feathers floating…suggest he just landed from flying free and the bright colors portray the happiness that the open world brings.”

The Honors Visual Art Exhibition is a long-standing collaboration between the Saint Paul Public Schools, Minnesota Museum of American Art (the M), and Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. The program celebrates 30 years of extraordinary creative talent by more than 9,500 participating high school students. The events have included visual art exhibitions, vocal and instrumental performances, and spoken word poetry. Students are selected to participate through auditions and art submissions.

Visit the M in downtown St. Paul from June 27–July 17, 2021 to see a showcase of the student work installed on the museum’s exterior windows on 4th Street. The M is located at 350 Robert Street North, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101.

In conjunction with the exhibition, students will have the opportunity to view a pre-recorded mini-presentation where local artists will demonstrate art-making and discuss their background, experience as an artist, and career path. Each artist will also answer student-submitted questions.

We hope you enjoy the exhibition and we thank you for celebrating Saint Paul Public School’s emerging creative talent!

Dr. Joe Gothard, Superintendent, Saint Paul Public Schools

Chris Widdess, Interim Executive Director, Minnesota Museum of American Art

Christine Sagstetter, Interim President, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts