2015 EXHIBITION CATALOG

On the cover Artwork by Saul Bezner, MCG Youth & Arts student and junior at Pittsburgh Obama 6-12.

2015 MCG INVITATIONAL

For more than 25 years, the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild has been a champion for youth, art and education in Pittsburgh. The second annual MCG Invitational continues the tradition of serving Pittsburgh area high-school students. The MCG Invitational seeks to recognize excellence and extol achievement demonstrated by youth in urban and economically disadvantaged communities. Once again we are proud to include students from Pittsburgh Public Schools, Pittsburgh’s charter schools, as well as schools in Penn Hills, Braddock, West Mifflin, Duquesne, Wilkinsburg, Homestead and McKeesport. By providing this opportunity, the MCG Invitational highlights talent, rewards achievement, and encourages hope among those who might otherwise be overlooked. This exhibition will reward meritorious students with cash awards, prizes and post-secondary education scholarships.

Paulo Nzambi COO, National Center for Arts and Technology

MCG Invitational

David Deily Vice President, MCG Youth & Arts

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2015 MCG INVITATIONAL TABLE OF CONTENTS About Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild

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Acknowledgements 8 Awards & Scholarships

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Student Artists

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City Charter High School

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East Allegheny High School

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Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild

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Pittsburgh Allderdice High School

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Pittsburgh Brashear High School

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Pittsburgh CAPA 6 - 12

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Pittsburgh Carrick High School

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Pittsburgh Obama 6-12

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Pittsburgh Science & Technology

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Propel Andrew Street High School

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Propel Braddock Hills High School

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Neighborhood Academy

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West Mifflin Area High School

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Reception Agenda 5:00 – 6:30

Friedberg Benefit Preview Pre-registration Required

6:00 – 7:00

Public Reception and Exhibition Viewing

7:00 – 8:30

Awards Presentation in MCG Concert Hall

8:30

Friedberg Benefit Silent Auction Bids Are Closed and Announced

8:30 - 9:00

Informal Exhibition Viewing and Art Sales

Our band for the evening Antone DeFade Trio Anton DeFade – Bass George Heid III – Drums Anthony Ambroso - Guitar

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MCG Invitational

UPMC Health Plan is proud to support Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild and the MCG Invitational Arts Exhibition and Awards Ceremony.

2015 MCG INVITATIONAL About Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild For over 40 years, Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild (MCG) has been a unique haven—a multi-disciplined arts and learning center that fosters a sense of belonging, interconnections, and hope within the urban community. Located on Pittsburgh’s North Shore, MCG houses visual arts, design, digital, ceramics and photography studios, an auditorium/ concert hall and an art gallery—all designed to showcase the roles of creativity and craftsmanship in learning. Handmade objects, uniquely designed furniture, photographs, and paintings that adorn public and private spaces create a model environment for education, exhibitions, performances, and social and professional gatherings.

About MCG Youth & Arts Founded in 1968, MCG Youth & Arts is a center for arts and learning. Students may participate in programs including, but not limited to: courses in ceramics, photography, design and digital arts; career and college exposure activities; and exhibits by internationally renowned artists who also conduct workshops with MCG students. Additionally, MCG Youth & Arts hosts a number of educational opportunities for principals, teachers, and the community, and offers public access to its art gallery at no cost. All of MCG Youth & Arts’ programs are implemented by professional working artists, and maintain an 8:1 student:teacher ratio in order to provide students the attention they need to succeed.

After School Events & Exhibitions

Summer Studios

School Day

Adult Courses

Art Sales For all art sales inquiries, please contact Rose Mary Gubser: 412-322-1773 x302 [email protected] 7% sales tax will be charged on total sales. Frames are not included in the sale price. Purchased works will be available for pick-up after May 9, 2014. Please call to schedule a pick up time. Pieces marked NFS are not available for purchase.

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2015 MCG INVITATIONAL Our Studios

All four of our art-making studios are designed to provide students with a real-world, professional experience.

Ceramics

Design Arts

Photography

Digital Arts

Our ceramics studio is equipped with a slab roller, 18 potter’s wheels, a myriad of hand-building tools, 3 electric kilns and 4 gas kilns including raku. Our well-equipped raw materials lab allows our students to create an endless variety of glazes in pursuit of their creative vision.

Our photography studio is equipped to teach traditional film-based photography – including darkroom techniques – as well as digital imaging. Additionally, we have computer workstations with industry-standard software for image correction and large format photo printing. Our professional-grade portrait studio completes the mix.

Our design arts studio is equipped to teach a variety of artistic processes. We have sewing and embroidery machines, easels, all the equipment for screen and traditional printmaking as well as up-to-date computer workstations. Whether your interest is quilt-making or sculpture, our staff strives to help you release your creative genius in the medium of your choice.

Our digital arts studio is divided into a PC and a Mac lab. To facilitate our students’ exploration of print, web, and video arts, all our computers are loaded with industry-standard software such as Adobe’s Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Adobe Premiere Pro, Sony Acid Music and Garageband. Our green screen room allows students to place themselves in new, exciting and even virtual learning environments.

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2015 MCG INVITATIONAL MBC Board of Directors

Scott M. Lammie, Chair Nancy L. Rackoff, Esquire, Vice Chair Vincent V. Sands, CFA, Treasurer M. Elise Hyland, Secretary Brian D. Aiello Amy Atkinson Scott G. Brown, Esquire Lauren Craig, CPA Chereé Johnson Gregory B. Jordan Todd A. Kalis Jeffrey A. McDaniel David L. Motley Mark A. Nordenberg Robert N. Peirce Jr., Esquire Lisa Peters Dorothy L. Raizman, Esquire Susan Baker Shipley R. Damian Soffer William E. Strickland Jr. Nicholas D. Varischetti, Esquire Life Members E. Peter Benzing Nancy L. Bromall Michael A. Bryson Jack L. Burley, Sr. George Fechter Diana Jannetta Don Alan Linzer John Pelusi Michael Schurko John Unkovic Doris Carson Williams Emeritus Livingston Biddle Deceased Anthony L. Bucci Carolyn Byham Dorothy A. Davis, Esquire K. Leroy Irvis Deceased Claudette R. Lewis Glenn R. Mahone, Esquire Frank Mont Deceased Theodore Roberts, Jr. Clifford R. Rowe, Jr. Tony Torres Milton A. Washington Alfred W. Wishart, Jr. Ex Officio Kevin L. Jenkins, L.S.W. Paulo Nzambi Jeffrey P. Teasdale Massy Paul

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MCG Youth & Arts Staff David Deily Vice President Justin Mazzei Director Rose Mary Gubser Executive Assistant Kat Gregor Student Services Keith Hershberger Teaching Artist/Exhibition Coordinator Jill Wiggins Database Manager/Teaching Artist Jeff Guerrero Production Associate/Teaching Artist Di-ay Battad Teaching Artist Richena Brockinson Teaching Artist Ben Pyles Teaching Artist K. Shabazz Teaching Artist Beyvan Schantz Teaching Artist Germaine Watkins Teaching Artist Jolie Valentine Exhibitions Assistant

Special thanks

We would like to express our gratitude to Margie Law for her generous donation of homemade desserts, to the talented craftsman Tadao Arimoto for his efforts in creating the Friedberg scholarship trophies, to the talented staff of the Drew Mathieson Center for their efforts in creating exquisite flower arrangements, and to all of the dedicated teachers who have guided the young artists represented in the MCG Invitational.

MCG Invitational

2015 MCG INVITATIONAL Award DONORS

Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild thanks the following donors for their extraordinary generosity. Through their support, the following scholarships and awards are being offered through the 2012 MCG Invitational Arts Exhibition.

Eleanor Friedberg Art Scholarship Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation

jurorS Eleanor Friedberg Art Scholarship Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation Adrienne Heinrich Kathleen Zimbicki Allegheny City Society Juliet Pusateri

Allegheny City Society

Betsy and Dale Huffman Betsy and Dale Huffman

Betsy and Dale Huffman

Pittsburgh Glass Center Jason Forck

Pittsburgh Glass Center

Society For Contemporary Craft Award Jenny Sorracco

Society For Contemporary Craft Award

Pittsburgh Filmmakers/Center For The Arts Cornelia Davis

Pittsburgh Filmmakers/Center For The Arts

Standard Ceramic Jenna Vanden Brink

Standard Ceramic Mattress Factory

Mattress Factory Cynthia Blackwell

Andy Warhol Museum

Andy Warhol Museum Nicole Dezelon

The Art Institute Of Pittsburgh

The Art Institute Of Pittsburgh Greg Butler

Pittsburgh Society of Artists

Pittsburgh Society of Artists Carolyn Pierotti

Associated Artists of Pittsburgh

Associated Artists of Pittsburgh Nicole Dezelon

Carlow University Robert Morris University

Carlow University Dale Huffman & Bill DeBernardi

Chatham University

Robert Morris University Christine Holtz

Touchstone Center for Craft

Chatham University Prajna Parasher

Union Project

Touchstone Center for Craft Juliet Pusateri

West Virginia University

Union Project Jenna Vanden Brink

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2015 MCG INVITATIONAL Gifts & Classes

cash awards

Pittsburgh Glass Center Awards

Allegheny City Society Mary Cassatt Award

Pittsburgh Glass Center is one of the top glass art facilities in the US dedicated to teaching, creating and promoting glass art. Pittsburgh Glass Center proudly recognizes one emerging student artist through a scholarship for the high school 10-week after school glass program. This year, two outstanding graduating student artists also being recognized for their dedication to and achievement in glass art.

Society For Contemporary Craft Award

Presenting contemporary art in craft media by international, national and regional artists since 1971, the Society for Contemporary Craft offers cutting edge exhibitions focused on multicultural diversity and non-mainstream art, as well as a range of classes, community outreach programs and a fantastic retail store. Exhibitions and family friendly hands-on art activities in a drop-in studio are always free to the public.

Pittsburgh Filmmakers/Center For The Arts

PF/PCA is committed to the artist and the advancement of artistic excellence in visual arts. Founded in 1945, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts is a nonprofit organization that offers arts education and contemporary art exhibitions, providing services and resources for artists. Founded in 1971, Pittsburgh Filmmakers is a nonprofit corporation offering courses in film, video, and photography designed to encourage the creation and understanding of media for noncommercial artistic and literary purposes.

Mattress Factory Award

The Mattress Factory is a museum of contemporary art that presents art you can get into — room-sized environments, created by in-residence artists. Located in the historic Mexican War Streets of Pittsburgh’s North Side since 1977, the Mattress Factory is one of few museums of its kind anywhere.

Union Project

Union Project makes space to connect, create, and celebrate community. Union Project’s Arts Program creates connections and opportunities for learning. Through community-based arts programming, we serve the diverse needs of our surrounding neighborhoods and encourage the making of beautiful things, both hand-made objects and connections among people. The Union Project Ceramics Award will give one talented young person the opportunity to participate in a class, working alongside community members and learning from one of UP’s member teaching artists.

Touchstone Center for Craft

Touchstone Center for Crafts is Pennsylvania’s only residential craft school. The 150 acre campus, with its cluster of educational and residential facilities, is located in Farmington, Pennsylvania, amid the natural splendor of the Laurel Highlands. Touchstone offers workshops in traditional and emerging craft forms including ceramics, blacksmithing, metalsmithing, fiber arts, mosaic arts, and more. In addition to offering immersive workshops taught by nationally renowned artisans, Touchstone provides underserved audiences in the region, from senior citizens to public school students, craft-centered outreach programs.

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The Allegheny City Society works to perpetuate the historical and social life of Pittsburgh’s North Side, a portion of the city known prior to 1907 as Allegheny City.

Eleanor Friedberg Family Media Awards

The Eleanor Friedberg Family presents cash awards to three artists selected in each media category: • Sculpture • Crafts including textiles and jewelry • Painting • Drawing & Printmaking • Video, electronic, & mixed media

Dale and Betsy Huffman Award for Ceramics

In honor of their parents, Masha and Larry Epstein and Jim and Jinny Huffman, who have encouraged them to pursue their dreams, Dale and Betsy Huffman give these awards to foster the development of young artists through ceramics. Students studying ceramics in a comprehensive high school or Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild are eligible for selection.

Andy Warhol Museum Emerging Artist Award

The Warhol Young Artist Award recognizes an emerging talent whose work and creative outlook emulates or reflects Warhol’s spirit of experimentation and/or celebration of popular culture. The winner is selected through a review of the entrant’s total body of work.

Associated Artists Award

The Associated Artists of Pittsburgh is the oldest, continuously-exhibiting, visual arts organization in the country. Founded in 1910, AAP has spent over 100 years as a driving force in Pittsburgh’s dynamic cultural life. Its mission today, as then, is to provide a vital and challenging environment for artists to exhibit new work in the widest possible range of media.

Standard Ceramic

Standard Ceramic Supply Company is a local manufacturer of clay and glazes for potters, schools and artists and supplies tools, glaze chemicals, ceramic materials and decorating supplies.

Pittsburgh Society of Artists Award

The Pittsburgh Society of Artists was founded in May 1965. With nearly 300 members whose work represents all visual-arts media, the PSA is the largest guild of the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. For over forty years the PSA has been dedicated to providing its members with opportunities to exhibit their art, both in the Pittsburgh area and beyond southwestern Pennsylvania. The Pittsburgh Society of Artists Award was created to recognize the achievement and commitment of a young artist studying art in a comprehensive high school.

MCG Invitational

2015 MCG INVITATIONAL Scholarships All higher education scholarships require submission of a portfolio of four pieces of artwork as well as a completed application form and an artist’s statement. Students may submit the same body of work for multiple scholarships.

Chatham University Award

Founded in 1869, Chatham University is a coeducational university with a women’s college at its historic heart. Chatham is pleased to support the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild Invitational by providing a renewable scholarship in the amount of $2,000. Recipients of the MCG Visual Arts Scholarship must be admitted Eleanor Friedberg Art Scholarship Fund of the and enroll as an undergraduate student to Chatham University Pittsburgh Foundation and must major in visual arts. Providing that the recipient of this Established in 1995 by the family and friends of the late Pittsburgh scholarship maintain a grade point average of at least 2.0 and artist Eleanor Friedberg, these scholarships are paid directly to full-time undergraduate enrollment at Chatham, the MCG Visual the institution that the winning artist attends. Scholarships paid Arts Scholarship is renewable annually for three years. to the top three award winners are disbursed over a two year period. Interested seniors submitting an entry for consideration must plan to attend a two- or four-year accredited college or ca- MCG Youth & Arts reer school to pursue study in the arts and complete a specific This summer, MCG is offering an exciting opportunity for the Pittsburgh area youth (grades 5-12) to create art in our world-class application form. facility. Use state of the art equipment and professional-grade The top three winners of the Friedberg Scholarship will be fea- materials to create one of a kind works of art in our ceramics, tured in an exhibition May 24 to June 27th at the Eastside Gal- photo, design and digital art studios. Three two-week sessions will lery, 4240 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh PA. 15221 www.eastside- run June 30 – August 8. gallery.com

West Virginia University

Robert Morris University

RMU awards outstanding students with a scholarship valued at $4000 to be dispersed over four years of enrollment at the University. RMU’s Media Arts program comprises BA and BFA degrees in the areas of Graphic Design, Web Design, Photography, and TV/Video Production.

Founded in 1867, West Virginia University is the state’s flagship land-grant, research university. WVU opens opportunities to scholars around the world. WVU has produced 24 Rhodes Scholars, and WVU’s campus has been ranked one of the safest in the country. WVU will award one four-year full-scholarship (out of state tuition) valued at $81,424.

The Art Institute Of Pittsburgh AIP Tuition Scholarships

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh (AIP) awards up to five tuition scholarships in the amounts ranging from $5000 - $25,000. Applicants were evaluated based on their submitted total body of work, artist’s statement and interviews by representatives of AIP’s education leadership. Students submitting an entry for consideration must meet the Art Institute of Pittsburgh’s admission requirements. Scholarships are applicable to tuition in Associates or Bachelor’s degree programs at AIP only, are activated by acceptance, and will be applied evenly over the recipient’s term of enrollment. The awards are not transferable and not redeemable for cash.

AIP School Awards

The AIP scholarship winners’ respective Pittsburgh Public High Schools will receive the following cash awards issued to support the district’s arts programs: • 1st Place: School receives $1000 • 2nd Place: School receives $750 • 3rd Place: School receives $500 The school awards will be granted regardless of the student’s acceptance of the scholarship. Only one cash award per school is granted.

Carlow University Arts Award

The Carlow University Arts Award, in conjunction with Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, was created for graduating high school seniors interested in pursuing study in the arts at Carlow University. The top recipient receives a one-time non-renewable, nontransferable $3000 award which serves as a part of the student’s financial aid package upon enrollment at Carlow.

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Student artists City Charter High Alison Branscum Teacher: James Kappernaros Let Amnesia Rest Photoshop $20 Gravity of Love AMV Animation $20 Forgive Moonfall Photoshop $20 Artist Statement I have created these pieces out of emotion and interest in animals. Since I am still practicing human anatomy, I have decided to draw my own characters instead. My greatest influence for these pieces is an artist on DeviantART.com who goes by NinjaKato, my idol in art. Animation wise, it was the Lion King and Wolves of the Mist, an animated series in the works on YouTube. I have used Photoshop to create these pieces, Sony Vegas Pro 12 for animations. My hopes are for someone to see me work and see or create a story behind them. Kailyn Chichilla Teacher: James Kappernaros

of wild horses or deer are slow, relaxing scenes to illustrate. Each moment in time from any animal is a new work of art and new picture to capture. These are just some moments that give me inspiration to draw. Another favorite of mine is combining animals to create new creatures, or remaking ones that are around. Mythological creatures have been around for centuries, evolving just as real animals adapted and change. Dragons are one of the best examples because they can be made from any animal and created to accomplish any task. From slithering, compassionate water dragons to stealthy midnight dragons picking off sheep one by one. Some can be intelligent and capable of human interaction, while others can be ferocious, bloodlusting demons who only live to destroy and eat. These varied instances are ways I can catch and express my emotions and feelings, no matter my mood. Art through animals gives me an important piece of my life that allows me to be myself and do what I need. Chasity Cook Teacher: James Kappernaros The Dress Designs Scratch Board $50

Watercolor NFS Artist Statement My name is Izabelle Cook, I’m 15 years old and I’m currently a junior at City Charter High School. I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up; but one day I was drawing and my teacher said I was really good. After that day, I decided I want to be a Graphic Designer when I grow up. I took an intro to design class in tenth grade and I’m currently taking a watercolor class. I love painting and drawing. For this show I originally made a standard deck of cards where each suit was a different show I watched. I made the clubs My Little Pony, diamonds are Bakugan, spades are Pokémon, and my favorite show Digimon are the hearts. I took the four aces and redid them in four different styles. I picked marker for club, watercolor is for diamond, scratch art I picked for the spade and colored pencil I used for heart. Mackensie Cross Teacher: James Kappernaros Let The Rain Fall Digital Photography $30

Artist Statement To me photography isn’t just about Wolf Head Painting capturing memories or making art, it’s Acrylic something deeper. Photography is a Artist Statement NFS new way to see life. You see life through I created a scratch art piece consisting your eyes while I see it through a lens. of two designs: a dress and an outfit. Jaguar Scratch Art What draws me to a subject is someThis was an inspiration of my thoughts Scratch art thing that is unique, never seen before, of making clothes for people. I like $100 something that will probably never be how I designed the two outfits, very Dragon Drawing seen again. Images that are once in a contrasted yet extremely textured with Colored Pencil life time shots are something that apthe shine, with the gold being opposite NFS peals to me. I rarely attempt to alter my of the black paper. I think that there photographs; I want everyone to see is a lot of effort within these designs. I Artist Statement what I was seeing at that exact moment, first started off with a design of a girl Animals provide the world with beauty; with hair and had too much basic or I don’t want to alter that moment in time. the way they move, hunt, mate, and so outlined. I wanted to do something more I thrive for challenges and uniqueness; many other actions can show a beauty advanced, more graphic. So that’s what things that aren’t done often. not seen in humans. From the glossy fur led to my final design. Therefore, I think and razor sharp claws of a jaguar to The subjects in my best works are natuthat this design is good for the showthe long, vibrant feathers of a peacock, case and I aspire to be an designer but ral. Nature is one of my favorite things or the shiny, slippery scales of fish to the am more of an illustrator. to photograph. There’s a lot you can smooth, muscular body of a dolphin. do with texture and color, everything Coordinated pack hunts from wolves has uniqueness to it. Taking photos of Izabelle Cook and the single, calculated strike of a musicians performing is another favorite Teacher: James Kappernaros snake are fast, exciting moments, while simply because it’s challenging. To get Ace of Diamond the leisurely grazing periods in a herd

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STuDENT ARTISTS the perfect shot you have to work with your surroundings, which makes it all the more fun. Taking pictures outdoors is amazing, the lighting and the way it hits your subject just right to make it look like it belongs, like it’s real. Melanie Fetsko Teacher: James Kappernaros Frog in Splatter Land Watercolor NFS

ums: Printmaking and Sculpture. My printmaking work features the printmaking techniques linocut and woodcut, which involve the carving away from linoleum and wood surfaces to create two dimensional images that are printed with ink onto paper to create image reliefs. The decorative mask features additive sculpture in that it is the sum of materials that I combined together to make a three dimensional image;

tiger Printmaking $50 Yin and Yang Printmaking $30 Artist Statement This past year in my Studio Art Classes we focused on two different art medi-

Sleep Photoshop NFS

Summer Studios

Artist Statement I’m Melanie Fetsko, and I am a senior at City Charter High School. I’ve taken art classes at the Carnegie Museum for 9 years and as well as at school, further building my interest in art. I have been attending art club at my school for 4 years as well as doing a graduation project on art programs in communities. I hope to continue my love for art in college.

erica Greer Teacher: Mr. Henzler

dallann Jackson Teacher: James Kappernaros

Daytime arts & crafts programs for youth!

Float Away Watercolor NFS

Currently, I do a lot of watercolors paintings and drawings with pen or pencil, but am hoping to explore more multimedia work. I also do other forms of art such as crocheting, sewing, and occasionally sculpture. Although I tend to like realistic drawings, I’ve gotten into more abstract and surreal artwork over the past few years. I like being able to place something that is recognizable in a world or with elements that are unrealistic, as the combination of objects is something that intrigues me. Nature, media such as movies, other artists, and an interest in expressing my thoughts all are influences to my artwork.

sculpted from cardboard, paper, glue, tape, wire, finished with acrylic paints, rhinestones, and mounted onto cork board.

2015

Program Offerings Middle School

SUMMER STUDIO 2015

Three two-week sessions for students 10-13 years old, Monday-Friday 9am – 4pm. Students will work in three of our four studios every day, creating a variety of projects. $480.00 per session.

High School Three two-week sessions for students 14-18 years old, Monday-Friday 1pm – 4pm. Each

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session is focused in one studio, with students spending three hours in digital, design or ceramics. $250 per session.

Questions?

To Register

Contact Student Services:

Visit our website, or contact:

Kat Gregor

Rose Mary Gubser

E-MAIL: [email protected]

E-MAIL: [email protected]

PHONE: 412-322-1773 Ext. 196

PHONE: 412-322-1773 Ext. 302

www.mcgyouthandarts.org

FAX: 412-321-2120

MCG INVITATIONAL

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Student artists Artist Statement First things first, my name is Dallann. You say it like Allan but with a D in front of it. Please don’t mess it up. This is awkward for me because I don’t really consider myself that great of an artist (My art teacher encouraged me to participate in this show). However, I love to make art in any way that I can, because I’ve found that it’s a great way for me to deal with depression, as well as express myself, as I’m not too good with words, and sometimes it feels weird to pester others with my issues. One of the works I did in pencil, another in pen, and the other two were done in photoshop using a Wacom tablet. They’re all inspired by a mood or feeling, be that creativity, depression, body positivity, or pride. Courtney Kohnen Teacher: James Kappernaros

Liara t’soni Photoshop $20

sports – mainly. I can’t fully describe my art and the way I go about designing it, but I can say that I take pride in it.

Artist Statement My art showcases different stylistic digital designs. I draw inspiration from pop culture like video games and movies such as Mass Effect and Alice in Wonderland. I specialize in digital art and these pieces showcase my wide range of styles and color techniques. While I aspire to be an interior designer, my true passion is digital and traditional drawing.

I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Since I could remember I had an obsession with two geographical regions; the west coast (California, Arizona, Seattle, Oregon) and Canada (specifically Toronto). Through some of my art, you can see where I am coming from. I’ve done a lot of work that involves Jose Bautista of the Toronto Blue Jays. I’ve done work that relates to Aubrey “Drake” Graham whom is also a native of Toronto, ON. In comparison to some of those artworks, I’ve done numerous projects that included Jimi Hendrix, whom was born in Seattle as I mentioned above to be one of my admired cities.

Catrina Luttinger Teacher: James Kappernaros Reflection Digital Photography $25

Artist Statement My name is Catrina Luttinger, and I go to City Charter High School. This year I decided to submit a photograph. This piece was kind of an accident. I Drawing of Frances Cobain was trying to take a good photo for Pencil this event, and none of the ones that I NFS took (with my Pro Camera app) were Artist Statement to enough of my liking to be submitArt is a hobby I have done for many ted. I took this one for fun to send to years now. As I’ve gotten older, I’m my friend and, I wasn’t expecting it more into art and drawing. When I to look vibrant, and good enough for got into high school, I always wanted the Manchester Art Show. I was very to take art classes. I did get into my illus- focused, even in a zen state of mind. I tration and design classes. I like to use was determined to get a good enough my creativity and creating something picture for this show that evening, and that is my own and that I worked hard here it is. on. For a drawing or piece of art, I like Bryndon Minniefield to challenge myself and try to improve my art skills. I do use my art occasional- Teacher: James Kappernaros ly to express myself or what I am going 1968 through. I hope to have and use many Photoshop forms of art in my future. $30 Katelyn Ley Artist Statement Teacher: James Kappernaros Inspired by my city; the buildings and the reflections from all of the lights just Star Eyed Girl seem to interest me. I am a lonely perPhotoshop son. My art is portrayed through a dark $20 and very questionable lens. My favorite The Red Queen color is orange; however I love black. I Photoshop feel as though black is the foundation of $20 all colors. It is deep and it talks to you. I do not like the spotlight, I don’t like Gazelle standing out. My art speaks for me. I Photoshop mainly design images in Adobe Photo$20 shop. My art is inspired by music and Fireworks in the Sky Digital Photography $25

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I enjoy taking cool pictures from unorthodox angles. I truly enjoy the feeling that I get when I create my art. My own masterpiece. It is just a great feeling. Art makes me happy. I enjoy it. It takes my mind off of things. It removes me from society and puts me in a place where it is only myself and my art. There is nothing better than that. I look at my art as a poem for open interpretation. As the viewer, you can guess my motives all you want, but I know the real motive for all of it. It is hard to explain. But it is there. Alexandra Wade Teacher: James Kappernaros Nina Bonita Digital Photography $20 Artist Statement I’m an artist because I really enjoy capturing moments with my camera. The pictures I like the most are the ones people are never ready for or when they don’t even know it’s happening. When the emotions and actions are natural. I also like using my pictures to show people what I see. These photographs are from when I went to Costa Rica, so hopefully people get insight on what I was able to see while I was there.

Student artists East Allegheny Sarah Cornell Teacher: Cheryl Lane Ballerinas Acrylic NFS Pascal Clay NFS Artist Statement A scholarship from the Manchester Craftsman’s Guild would be beneficial for my goal to be an animator. The Manchester Craftsman’s Guild scholarship would allow me to go to a school that could teach me how to use my skills as an artist to design unique characters and to create an entertaining animation movie, which will be useful in an animating career. I am looking for a college that teaches a thorough explanation of animating, and how to add little touches to make my creations detailed and unique. The Manchester Craftsman’s Guild scholarship will help

me apply to a school that will have exactly what I was looking for. They will also prepare me for the challenges in becoming an animator. After going to a college, I will be ready for my goal to be an animator at Disney or Pixar. A scholarship from the Manchester Craftsman’s Guild will help me pay for an education to make my dream of becoming an animator a reality, which would be impossible for me otherwise. Mylisa Fisher Teacher: Cheryl Lane Deep Creek Lake Watercolor NFS

Art has made me realize that life is filled in colors, shadows, and light. With that thought process, every single object and existing thing is beautiful and an inspiration for art. Lately I have been really thinking about what is artistic in every sight I see. I sketch, paint, and even photograph a lot of striking things that interest me. There is nothing I love more than admiring nature, animals, people and fairytales. I dream of one day becoming an art teacher so that I can inspire other people to live their lives full of art as well. Erin Kendall Teacher: Cheryl Lane

Artist Statement Art is capturing the beauty in everyday life and remaking it to show the world the little marvelous things that sometimes go unnoticed. Ever since I have started getting involved in art I have had a very different outlook on life and the way things are seen. When I was little I thought art was drawing something on paper. Now I feel that art is adding lights and darks and detail to a page.

Tatoo City Pencil $60 Where Will We Go Acrylic $55 Artist Statement When I start to draw or paint something I always have some type of emotion in my head. It always finds a way to come

Member of FINRA and SIPC

Sponsorship made possible through the generosity of the

Clark Hunter Foundation

Without “Art” the earth is just “Eh”

Proud to sponsor the MCG Invitational Arts Exhibition MCG Invitational

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Student artists out in my picture, most of the time it has a darker aspect to it. Then there’s the part where I have the flow of music and just feeling coming out right onto the paper with every mark I make. I never really know what I’m going to draw when I start; sometimes it just starts out with a simple line or circle. Then there’s the feeling I get when I pick up the paint brush or the tool I’m using for sculpting or something as simple as a pencil I get this feeling of making myself just a little bit happier. Throughout my drawings and paintings I try to learn different ways to go about doing things and making myself a better artist. I listen to how other people do there’s and I apply it to what I’m trying to do to make myself better. Kasey Neiderlander Teacher: Cheryl Lane Flying Free Feathers and Fabric NFS Ocean Wind Watercolor NFS Artist Statement Art has inspired me to make my life my masterpiece. Art is my escape and my chance to express who I really am. I hope to have a career as an artist so that one day my art can inspire others just as it has inspired me. Shannon Nelis Teacher: Cheryl Lane Atoms Watercolor $40 Double Exposure Pencil NFS Artist Statement I have always looked at art as a convenient reverie. It has been a very calming hobby that I have enjoyed for the vast majority of my life. In time, I hope to teach others with my art, as well as share personal experiences and stories from what I have gone through, and the people I have known.

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I have always loved story-telling and educating others on topics I am fairly knowledgeable on, whether by word of mouth, through writing, and especially visual art. I love discussing events and talking about people that have helped me grow and my current work reflects that. I have managed to find comfortable mediums for myself, usually ink and watercolors; my style tends to have a cartoon-like feel which usually contrasts with what or who it is depicting. I am finally starting to come in to my own in terms of my art. I have set goals for myself and I am starting to reach them. I am doing what I set out to do: tell stories of the wonderful people, places, and ideas that have helped me become who I am today. Victoria Parker Teacher: Cheryl Lane You Are Above Me Pencil NFS Mr. Mushroom Ceramic NFS Artist Statement My art is a reflection of myself. For some time I have seen myself gravitating towards fine arts. My real love is drawing. Working with pencil is amazing. Being able to work with the different values is really exciting for me to see what I can actually create. Recently I have been working with clay and sculpting. The new experiences help me see new aspects of art. My art is about reaching new heights with myself to see what I am capable of, also while enjoying the project. Mark Robinson Teacher: Cheryl Lane Light in the Abyss Ceramic $55 Artist Statement My art starts when I relate to something and it opens my mind to a bigger picture. With this flow of connecting ideas in my head, I create drawings or paint-

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ings, sculptures, music, stories or poetry. It’s an ongoing process of releasing tension and stress from the headache caused by life. The outcome is now a reminder of a story or emotion I once felt and endured. I tend to see little purpose in saving minor sketches or sculptures, due to the fact that all I wanted was that “quick fix” I get from creating them. It’s a quick way of me stabilizing myself mentally in that moment. Maria Sanchez Teacher: Cheryl Lane Nutela Acrylic $75 Tribal Talisman Ceramic $100 Alexis Schwer Teacher: Cheryl Lane Stellar Being Watercolor NFS Fraction Fusion Glass NFS Artist Statement My name is Alexis “Lexi” Schwer. I create art to show people beauty in the most abstract of things. I create pieces so that people will understand my concept and my definition of beauty. Before I create something new I think about obscure things and thoughts that people seem to forget about. I then take those thoughts and ideas and make them into something bright and shinning, something you can’t ignore. I try to incorporate a little part of me when making something new, whether it be with layered textures, or bright colors I always try to include it. My current works are a look into my thoughts of what can be beautiful. Society has a set definition for what beautiful can be, but I hope to change that. I hope to make people feel differently about what they once thought could and couldn’t be beautiful. Because I believe that beauty can be obscure and quirky among with many other things; beauty

Student artists is trial and error, not perfection. Cheyanne Skinner Teacher: Cheryl Lane Beauty and Strength Ceramic NFS Talking Machine Telephone $125 Artist Statement I find it hard to fake my emotions. Many of my pieces are very different and range from disturbing to carefree and fun. My artwork is a direct look into my soul at that precise moment. I enjoy art history, so I try to infuse it into my work. Art should speak, it should come alive. When I create, I want whoever the viewer is to feel something. Sarah Stiffey Teacher: Cheryl Lane Neverland Ceramic NFS Artist Statement During the past two years of taking ceramics classes, I found myself doing more fantasy work such as fictional characters and animation. Although the work I do can be frustrating at times, I still push through and try to create something amazing. Working with clay is something I really enjoy. There are many techniques and skills one can learn by working with clay. I love to experiment with different glazes, because I enjoy working with various colors. Lastly, I enjoy the fact that clay and glaze is always so unpredictable. Even though the work may not have come out the way I wanted it to at first, I could still have it turn into something magnificent in the end. Brooke Taylor Teacher: Cheryl Lane Hall Passes Wood NFS Slip Trail Pot Ceramic $25

Artist Statement Growing up as the daughter of a designer for Pittsburgh CLO has exposed me to art all my life. Just recently I have been finding myself through variations of art. A lot of my artwork resembles the renaissance, and nature. I find that time period is absolutely beautiful; so much legendary art has come from that time. My favorite material to use is clay. The feel of the clay makes me feel relaxed, and it keeps me peaceful. I also enjoy working with paint. At times I get frustrated with things when it does not work the way I want it to, but I love finding new ways to fix and alter things to make them work better. My artwork is very natural and realistic, the realistic the art, the better it becomes. There are many things that inspire me to make art; such as, my teachers, friends, and family. They all motivate me to challenge and push myself to new levels.

Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild Saul Bezner Teacher: Keith Hershberger and Beyvan Schantz Anna Enamel Paint NFS Hey You Enamel Paint NFS Waves Ceramic NFS Artist Statement I painted “Sophia” on top of a linen sheet in my garage. At first, it was just a painting: I had enamel, a wooden board, and a sunny afternoon. But the longer it sat in my room, the more it reminded me of something or someone. I haven’t seen Sophia in a long time and when I think of her, my memory blurs and creates an image like the painting. My sister, Anna lives in Oregon so we don’t see each other often. For most of my life, she has been my role model and greatest source of inspiration. The day I painted “Anna”, we were texting

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about her next trip home. The painting, “Hey You” was influenced by the Pink Floyd songs “Hey You” and “Wish You Were Here” which I painted during a time of shame and self-reflection. My last piece, “Waves” was thrown in the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild ceramic studio. Over the past year, wheel throwing has become a release for me. I can only describe this feeling of release as a steady current in water, pushing me onward. Teddy Caplan Teacher: Germaine Watkins Dining Film Photography $35 Artist Statement Dining was created during Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild course Darkroom Mania with photography instructor Germaine Watkins. During this course, we learned various printing techniques like selective developing which was used for this piece. Sophia Carlin Teacher: Beyvan Schantz Orange Bowl Ceramic NFS Destiny Colaizzi Teacher: Keith Hershberger and Beyvan Schantz Doh Tea Pot Ceramic $25 Artist Statement My statement on the art would be that I believe this is a great start to a art career if I choose that path. If I don’t choose to be an artist in life my work will still get me far in earning some extra money or enjoy my free time. I know my work will only get better if I keep trying my best like I do now with my artwork. Jakob Denham Teacher: Richena Brockinson February Digital Photography $45

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Student artists Emily Head Teacher: Ben Pyles Peer Into My Soul Acrylic NFS Melancholy Photoshop $20 Artist Statement In each piece of art I try to convey emotions that I could never put into words. I want my work to touch it’s audience on a deeper level as well as portray different forms of beauty I see everyday. Jymier Johnson Teacher: Jill Wiggins Graffiti Artist Digital Illustration $40 Artist Statement This piece was inspired by my love of grafitti art. Vivian Jou Teacher: Keith Hershberger Untitled Ceramic NFS Trevor Justice Teacher: Beyvan Schantz Oil Lamp Man Ceramic NFS Nicolette Kier Teacher: Keith Hershberger Movement Ceramic NFS The Mugs Ceramic NFS Unicorns are Cool Ceramic NFS Artist Statement This year I started telling people, “I’m not an artist anymore.” At first it pained me, and then I got used to it. Soon I

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said it passively, so sure it was true, so sure my number had been up because I’d found something else I loved. I thought that to be good at something meant to be devoutly devoted to it, and this year I was devoted to my research. This year I was, “a scientist,” and no longer, “an artist.” Then I started wondering what an artist was at all. Who has the right to call themselves that? What does the word even mean? I wanted so desperately to know what an artist was, how they lived and whether I was or wasn’t one of them. Now I’m trying to figure out what art even is. But at least that got me back in the studio. Nelly Kowalewski Teacher: Germaine Watkins Dried Rose in the Snow Film Photography $30 Skiing Film Photography $30 Artist Statement Among the complexity and chaos of the world surrounding us, I strive to capture the simple and essential natures of objects. Cassandra Marks Teacher: Beyvan Schantz Platter Ceramic NFS Hidden Hands Ceramic NFS Green Wiggle Ceramic $20 Artist Statement In my art I like to embody vast creativity without letting go of the feeling of nature. The key to having a beautiful piece is that you think it’s beautiful. As long as you like it there’s nothing wrong. I don’t like to make a fuss over the things I make, it may not be what I envisioned but it is what my hands decided to have take shape. There is no end to the amount of art that I want to create.

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Destiny Marshall Teacher: Germaine Watkins Depth Perception Digital Photography $50 Fence Digital Photography $50 Artist Statement Photographing the ordinary can turn into something extraordinary! “Take time to smell the roses”, is a commonly heard phrase. With these images you’re reminded not to over look the ordinary. Myra Morrow Teacher: Germaine Watkins The Tour Digital Photography $100 Over-seer Digital Photography $100 Artist Statement Photography is interesting to me because there are times when things are rough, but when I have the camera in my hand, I stop thinking about those problems. I love exploring different places, meeting new people, it’s a big fascination to me doing those things. Photography is a great experiance for me at my age right now, but I believe photography will always work along with me. Alex Pelletier Teacher: Keith Hershberger Fox Ceramic NFS Orla Pierce Teacher: Germaine Watkins Still Life Film Photography $30 Artist Statement This piece was created during Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild photography class “Darkroom Mania” with Germaine

Student artists Watkins. The image was made using the darkroom technique sepia toning.

Dereka Posey Teacher: Jeff Guerrero

Brianna Pleasant Teacher: Germane Watkins

Breaking Apart Photoshop $20

Hidden Beauty Digital Photography $40 Unexpected Digital Photography $40 Artist Statement Freedom of expression is why I take pictures. A lot of times people find themselves looking for words to describe their emotions, thoughts, and ideas. For me photography does just that it has no limits. A picture that means nothing to you can mean a million and one great and amazing things to me. It is a way to free myself from the ‘shackles’ of language.

Artist Statement When I draw, I do it because it makes me happy to create something with my own two hands. I started drawing just to have something to do in class, but then over the years I got so much better. Making art feels great when there’s others who love the same things I do. It’s awesome to get feedback from others about my art. But as far as goals, I just want to become the best I can be. I want my art to be as inspirational to others as it is to me. My process is very simple, before I start drawing I just read manga, watch cartoons, or even look at other artists work, just to get some inspiration to get my creative juices flowing. As far as materials I just grab a pencil and my sketchbook. After so many years of just drawing just to do it, I now want to express myself through

my art. I want to show my feeling or show parts of me in my art, no matter the feeling whether it be happy or sad. The challenges of changing my art style so many times from then to now, makes me want to explore more things within and outside my own art. Hazel Rouse Teacher: Richena Brockinson Rouse Digital Photography $45 Ivy Ryan Teacher: Di-ay Battad Cycle Printmaking NFS Earth and Water Ceramic NFS Artist Statement As an artist, I am highly influenced

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Student artists by nature and the environment. In the majority of pieces, elements of nature can be found through the color, design, or the actual image. When in nature, I feel a sense of relief, tranquility and happiness. I find beauty in the natural occurrences in trees, water and animals, and translate elements of what I see in real life into my art. I choose specific colors in my art that are cool and not too harsh, like light blues, greens and browns, and I want these elements to have a calm and relaxing effect on the audience. Art is a way to express your feelings and influence others, and through my art I try to convey ideas of peace and serenity. When I am making art I try not to rush, because I see it as a way to unwind, and when others see my art, I want them to feel the same way. I want the audience to look at my art and see it as a sort of escape from the non-stop world we live in today. Kylie Scheidlmeier Teacher: Germaine Watkins Shadows Film Photography $25 Artist Statement Taking photos allows me to capture a single moment in one second. I have one chance to get everything right: the exposure, the angle, the aperture. Every picture I take represents a part of me that I cannot express in words. I can show people not only what I saw, but how that moment made me feel. Black and white photos show as much emotion as color photos; they show emotions in their simplest form. I see shadows, sunshine, blacks, whites, and grays like I’ve never seen them before. Taking photos helps me realize the smallest details: the way a person’s hair lays across her shoulders or the way the shadows of leaves hit the trunk of a tree and the petals of a flower. Photography gives me power to show the world in black and white. Eamon Sheehan Teacher: Keith Hershberger, Justin Mazzei Mug and Cup Pair Ceramic NFS

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Paper Study Oil NFS House in Motion Oil NFS Artist Statement Movement is visually captivating to me as an artist and it is what I try to keep in mind when making a piece. I enjoy working in oil and ceramic most, as they are able to portray motion in a very essential way. During the process of making a 2D piece I will set out trying to make a realistic depiction but get distracted by certain elements of the subject which seem more dynamic than their surroundings. I enjoy using the pallet knife to bring out or suggest gesture and movement. The other side of my fascination with motion is in ceramics. My ceramic work centers on the functional aspects of movement. The entire production process for ceramics translates motion into a form. My forms are mostly utilitarian and creating them is a more subdued and deliberate approach. However my goal is still to produce works which gain their appeal from making different elements move. Tara Szramowski Teacher: Justin Mazzei Always Children Charcoal NFS Reflect Pen and Ink $200 Artist Statement Modern Transformation into Surrealism Surrealism welcomes spontaneous, inexplicable emotion. My works go beyond a common reality to display a distorted vision and provide a doorway to another visual dimension. The viewer is able to interpret deeper meanings and have an individually unique relationship with the piece. A plain object in a surrealist work becomes something greater. It reaches for something deeper than reality. How one views and interprets a work is never wrong. This the beauty of surrealism.

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There is a radical approach one must take to achieve this artwork. They alter our sense of reality. Each piece applies to a changing, dynamic world; they are windows with an ever changing view. Experimentation and risk taking are apparent in many of my works, as the closer you get to the image you begin realize the amount of line and space that is present. In addition other technical skills that I demonstrate are the use of rhythm, form, balance, texture, and movement. I demonstrate originality and imagination by the way I execute my pieces. These works demonstrate my overall accomplishments using my technical skills as well as showing who I am as an artist. Mindy Unger Teacher: Keith Hershberger Orange and White Ceramic $20 Artist Statement To be honest, most of my work is purely accidental, experimental, or both. I run into the happy circumstances of things turning out pretty, strange, or just unexpectedly breathtaking. This impulsive and chaotic way of doing pottery is so different from my writing style, which is meticulous and admittedly obsessive. I like the change. The pieces that I chose are, to me, the most representative of my passion in the ceramics studio. They show detail and delicacy, wide-open color and a hidden boldness, and an overall love of playing with the effects of glazes. They let me toy with impulsiveness and experimentation and see what it will produce. It fascinates me. Hannah Wahlberg Teacher: Germaine Watkins Ghost Cars Film Photography $25 Pretty Unequal Digital Photography $30 Artist Statement I am submitting a mixture of digital and

STuDENT ARTISTS film photographs because I enjoy doing both. These pictures are excellent examples of my skills as a photographer. As I go through these classes and take these photos, I grow as an artist and prepare myself for my future.

Jacquan West Teacher: Keith Hershberger

Gerald Watkins Teacher: Germaine Watkins

Pearl of hue Ceramic NFS

Steel city Digital Photography $40

Mater eden Ceramic NFS

Warp control Ceramic NFS

Swish Digital Photography $50 Banjo Playing Bob Digital Photography $40 Artist Statement I love love love photography. Taking pictures is one of my favorite things to do. I love the multiple tricks you can do just to get the perfect shot. I have been taking pictures ever since I can remember and going to continue taking them every chance I get.

Artist Statement An artist statement is to reflect on “the hows,” “the whys,” as well as “the ins and outs.” To give an idea of how to give form to the shapeless... So as the artist I feel it’s my duty to inform you what you see, what you feel, are what give my art any real value past sentimental. With every piece I create my morals and beliefs are always present. In my heart, I honestly believe the beauty is the eternity of the flaws. I don’t believe there is any true perfection past what it became. We, as humans, vary like the day from dusk, the twilight from the sunrise. We are naturally im-

perfect, and find fondness in a multitude of things. Yet we all somehow attracted to the foreign “World of Nature” and the familiar “Feats Of Man.” Nature is flawless due to the idea that no flower is like the next. No vine as thick or strong as the next. And none of these things will last as long as the one admiring them. They’re incomparable, priceless, desirable. As for “The Feats Of Man,” everyone who walks through cities admire the layout, the building, etc. The linear shape and controlled forms that bring the scenes we are most used to back into our minds. Nature takes a backseat to modern day life. When you gaze at it, usually it’s due to the winter gale. The time flowers have long wilted, yet unchanged are the creations of man. Seeming eternal, eroding still. I create my art to “give.” I was blessed with common-sense; knowledge was bestowed upon me. Never before did I think I could create, be labeled as anything other the loud nuisance, sloppy. until I became aware of individualism and diversity. How no one is truly the same nothing will ever be. My art reflects the passions I have; my faith and the lessons I’ve been taught.

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Student artists Pittsburgh Allderdice Iman Bey Teacher: Ferocron Leo Marly Acrylic NFS Artist Statement I describe my art in a colorful unique way. I challenge my self to express my different styles of art and things that I like. Each piece I have showed is a reflection of my inner self. My first piece expresses my love for reggae. My second piece expresses my love for ...well Zombies! My third piece expresses my love for the Aztec history and my final piece expresses my love for my personality. Julia Moore Teacher: Eleanor Voyvodich Kida Mixed Media NFS Artist Statement For this project, the requirements we were to create a charm bracelet that reflected our personalities uniquely. By making this charm bracelet, my goal was to create a piece that connected happiness from the past and my hopes for a happy future. To make this bracelet, I used nickel for my charms, jump rings, s-hook, and the hoops connecting everything. Connected to each end of the hoops was a string of blue and white beads. In the beginning of the project, finding inspiration for my charms was difficult, but the more I thought about the things that meant a lot to me it became very clear. The Greenie with the stamped initials represents my dog that has passed away, the Virgo symbol simply represents me, and the fan represents my aspirations to move to Japan in the future. If I were any other person, I wouldn’t see how these things could have a deeper meaning, but to me these are some of the few things that have kept me moving forward. I feel as if I could have done a better job on this project, but I am happy how it turned out. This project represents me.

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Jude Richardson Teacher: Eleanor Voyvodich

Amari Honick Teacher: Shannon Yon

Charm Bracelet Mixed Media NFS

Electric Flight Digital Photography $95

Artist Statement The goal of this project was the create a charm bracelet with at least three charms that symbolized me in some way. Throughout the making of the bracelet, I kept in mind that the final product should reflect me. My bracelet consists of leather and nickel. The charms, clamps, S-hook, and jump rings were all made of nickel and attached to a black, braided rope/bracelets. The elements and principles that I focused on were space, balance, and unity. Evenly spacing the charms created space and balance. Also, focusing on one type of metal balanced the bracelet and created unity. I believe that I was successful in creating a charm bracelet that represented me. Even though I was frustrated while making my bracelet, I am very proud of my final product and all of the work that went into making it.

Bunnaphin Ceramic $80

Pittsburgh Brashear Kelly Flaherty Teacher: Shannon Yon Laced Up Ceramic $25 AztecK Ceramic $25

Artist Statement When I create art, I feel more confident, more relaxed, more satisfied. It is the outlet for all troubles in life. My inspiration comes from everything. Any emotion both positive and negative. Any people both uplifting and dejecting. Even the most negative of situations can be transformed into a beautiful work of art. I threw the piece titled Catawampus on the potter’s wheel by accident. The clay would not cooperate with my hands so it turned into a crooked pot which was beautifully off center, it gives movement to the piece. The piece titled Bunnaphin is a sculptural cross between a bunny and a dolphin. This juxtaposition provides a unifying perspective on land and sea creatures, that they are all one being. The photograph titled Lonely Wind was created using a film camera in which I double exposed to create an eerie mood to the photo. The setting looks like it is moving but this being is stuck in time spectating life around her, wishing she could join in. The photo titled Electric Flight is two separate photos that accompany each other. The first is the inverted original and the second is a matrix of that original. Carly Long Teacher: Shannon Yon

Artist Statement The world creates an abundance of stress among one individual person’s mind, body, and soul. Art is a way to express yourself through colors and shapes without the worry of being judged personally. The peaceful mood that is felt as the creativity flows, takes away the stress of the outside world. You are free. I use a variety of colors within my work to reveal the significant amount of emotions felt in one single day. Working on my projects helps release the negative emotions and creates a sense of balance. Be free.

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Strangely Familiar Ceramic $65 Gatsby in Print Mixed Media $60 Athena’s Sign Ceramic $55 Artist Statement Self expression is one’s own personality, feelings, or ideas through art or speech. I use my self expression in my ceramic

Student artists work to express the darker side of art that intrigues me. Most of my ceramic work is inspired by facial expressions and how the face moves. Where as my other pieces are usually inspired by my literary influences such as, Gatsby In Print. One of my largest influences is not represented as I am heavily involved with theater arts and the construction of sets and prop pieces. I favor the form of art that makes you think about what you are seeing. My artwork is made up of thought provoking pieces that express my interests and influences. I plan to further my love for art as a incoming freshman at Point Park University while pursing a degree in the Conservatory of Performing Arts with a technical theater degree. Hawa Mganga Teacher: Jennie Canning Love Fabric, Dye, Wax $100 Artist Statement I created my batik and called it “Love.” It is a design that describes the love and piece I have experienced around the world. I put my feelings into my work because it helps me stay positive and loved like looking at spring flowers glowing with the wind. Coming up with a drawing of a heart and hands around it gave me a way to look at something abstract like love and gave me the words to describe it. First, I drew out a picture of my artwork on paper and then transferred it to fabric. The batik process is very complicated and mixing the dye and the wax didn’t always do what I expected but I love what it made. Nimo Noor Teacher: Jennie Canning Let It Shine Fabric, Dye, Wax $100 Artist Statement “Let It Shine” is a batik that contains the symbolism of my inspiration which is my religion. My batik has the symbol of Islam and the major concept of the faith, “Allah.” Most people have misconceptions of my inspiration and guidance in this world. I see it different without

judging. It is the light that shines inside me and makes me who I am. Dakota Rethage Teacher: Shannon Yon Tiki Tower Ceramic $110 Artist Statement Ceramics, being my only elective class among my rigorous, AP consumed schedule, is my only escape from the terrors and stress of high school. Creating beautiful pieces and expressing myself through art has always been an extremely significant part of my life. While brainstorming on what I should create, I decided to try something I’d never done before. I’ve always preferred just diving right in and sculpting, but I decided using the slab method was the way to go. I did a lot of pre-planning and really took my time to squeeze in as many details as possible into my piece. It took a substantial amount of effort and numerous class periods to finally complete, but it was worth every last second. Stephen Schwartz Teacher: Shannon Yon Beauty Ceramic $85 Artist Statement When a person sees a rose they may think of passion or love. My rose is connected to the beauty of women. The colors I chose represent love and the vine and thorns wrapped around the rose expresses the pain and distress that can come with it to contrast the rose. This piece is a decorative sculpture and should be displayed in an outdoor garden as a centerpiece. My artwork contains true emotion paired with the action of my hands and body, guided by those true emotions. Angela Stoehr Teacher: Shannon Yon Midnight Ceramic $40 Beautiful Tragedy Ceramic

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$30 Meredith Warren Teacher: Shannon Yon Timber Tea Cup Ceramic $50 Artist Statement High school is one of the most stressful times in one’s life. It feels like it contain only listening and learning. It is a difficult time to express yourself especially in typical classes. I have found an outlet from the tension of school and a chance to convey my feelings through artwork. My favorite mediums of art have become ceramics and photography. Each of my pieces focuses on the natural world around me, it’s simplistic yet at the same time complex beauty. No matter what the piece is the work that goes into it leaves me with a calm feeling, while also helping me develop other skills like focus and attention to detail.

Pittsburgh CAPA 6-12 Nell Hendricks Teacher: Heather White Untitled Printmaking $40 Best Friends Pen and Ink $30 Artist Statement My main focus in art is on stylized illustration. I have always been interested in comic art and illustration, which is often not considered to be serious or impressive in the art world. In my experiences with making art like this, I have never been told that my art meets any standards that make art classically “good”. My process is very directionless and nonsensical, I start and then go in the direction that feels appropriate. There is zero meaning behind anything I do, the main idea of my work is strictly visual. I am good at what I do, and I think the kind of art I create and am inspired by is valuable and important, but underappreciated. Art can extend outside having “good” drawing skills, and being

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Student artists extremely meaningful and conceptual, despite what I have been told in art school. My work may be meaningless conceptually, but visually what I create is extremely meaningful to me, even if no one else gets it.

Blood Glass NFS

rate color, movement and harmonious tones that evoke a feeling of joyful expression.

Sweat and Tears Glass NFS

Margaret Booth Teacher: Shannon Pultz

Maya Bingham Teacher: Mr. Childers

Closed Pot, No Flame Acrylic NFS

Ivory Safiyya II Digital Photography NFS

Grandma’s Bowls (Stacked) Acrylic NFS

Ivory Safiyya III Digital Photography NFS

Liner Acrylic NFS

Ivory Safiyya Video NFS

Stitches Like Mine Textile NFS

Artist Statement “Undercover Lizard Boss has a Morning Routine” explores the use of aesthetic and observant filmmaking, by displaying one subject’s morning routine. Although the narrative is not particularly compelling, the items and colors in the video were all carefully chosen, as to create a conscious aesthetic. In addition, the music chosen (“Dream a Little Dream of Me” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong) romanticized the process of getting ready especially since the final outcome of the subject’s dressing routine was not fully presented at the end.

Artist Statement I am stepping into an environment not unlike my own. Film incorporates aspects from all arts, detailed written stories, dramatic performances, along with sound and music. An artist there to capture it all. Endless possibilities exist, but in the end, only one story is told. Films may seem set in stone though. It’s particularly interesting how the entire film would be different if some aspect was changed. There are so many decisions that dictate what direction and tone a moving picture will undertake. I always looked over films and videos and never felt a connection with them until I made my own. Film allows you to transport many viewers into your world. You can run a chill through their spine, or make them squirm at the edge of their seat. Films have the ability to elicit such an immediate reaction from viewers, unlike other art. My journey is just at the beginning. I have only begun to unravel all the aspects necessary to create a beautiful work of art.

Isaiah Baynes Teacher: Denise Suska Green

Steven Bledsoe Teacher: Tenanche Golden

Dancing with Emotion Mixed Media $215

Le Cirque Watercolor $60

Into the Wild / Cycle of Life Printmaking $125

Artist Statement This piece is inspired by a digital artist who I admire very much. In the piece my intention is to express and incorpo-

Artist Statement I have spent a lot of time researching the ideology, tactics, goals, methods, and artists involved in what was known as the Feminist Art Movement of the 70s. My body of work has been heavily influenced by this research as I sought to understand feminism in terms of my own life experiences as well as the experiences of many of the women in my family who have come before me. My work aims to reclaim objects symbolizing domesticity, (in the Western world), forcing people to see them in a new, beautiful, light. In my pieces, I aim to transform the objects associated with household work, into works that are almost portrait-like, taking on a presence reminiscent of a women, herself. The embroidered fabric collage self-portrait is my way of reclaiming what has been historically deemed “a woman’s job,” turning it into something different. These pieces by no means are meant to say that we as women are bound to the traditional roles set before us. Especially in the clothesline painting, the message speaks to the act of taking those preconceptions of a woman’s role and “hanging them out to dry.” Also, this body of work simply touches on my own limited interpretation feminism, as there are many different feminisms for different women and situations globally.

Kelly Herman Teacher: Dennis Childers Poof Video $25 Artist Statement The art that I create encompasses many mediums and tries to convey many different messages but I found that in making this video there was not any boundaries of what was acceptable or any rules to follow as an artist. This let my video flow and added to the drama and mix of emotions coming through the film. Hannah Wells Teacher: Dennis Childers Undercover Lizard Boss has a Morning Routine Video $25

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MCG Invitational

Monica Brown Teacher: Tinache Golden

Student artists I’m Here Conte Crayon NFS Speak Conte Crayon NFS Artist Statement As an artist, I strive to capture what inspires me, and I am inspired by my friends; they’re people that I made the cautious decision to spend my time with, and for good reason. I learn from them through art and life; I feed off of their perspectives and words and reflect on it through my drawings. Their internal beauty shines from within and enhances their eternal beauty, which I try to capture through my art for the world to see. Too often, we try to look for beauty through nature, and to me it seems that we have forgotten about mother nature’s most beautiful creation: people. Benjamin Finnstrom Teacher: Shannon Pultz Self Portrait Pencil NFS Spring Tapestry Textile NFS Artist Statement The collection of work I have chosen to enter in this year’s MCG Invitational represents some of my ventures as an artistically interested youth in my junior year of high school. I created each of the four pieces I have submitted this year without the experience of doing similar projects, but I learned about each type of work through the process of creation. My linoleum block print, Smilodon Approaching, is the result of my first time carving a large scale linoleum block with a monochromatic final print. For my self-portrait, I focused on a realistic approach for a personal rendition as opposed to the majority of impressionistic attempts I have done previously. My woven piece, Spring Tapestry, was the result of my first time on the loom. Without any previous experience, I learned how to research patterns and operate the machinery while trying to attempt the completion of a textile piece

in its entirety. Industrial Cerebrum was my first attempt at juxtaposing surrealism with political and environmental messages within my ceramic work. I learned to mimic the textures of alternate material surfaces while attempting to compose a composition that lent itself to reflection on the state of the industrial world. William Grimm Teacher: Shannon Pultz Tea for One: Experimental Neriage Ceramic NFS Teddy Bear Skin Rug Textile NFS 4 Place 3 Piece Ceramic NFS Artist Statement I have discovered that being an artist takes more than technical ability. It takes a willingness to experiment and break the very boundaries that define technical ability. From slip casting to pattern making, I have pushed myself to experiment with every piece. All four revolve around new ideas, techniques, and processes that work together to create art that is not only conceptual but contains personal significance. Sarah Hudson Teacher: Jacques Baynes Gandhi Boys Acrylic $120 Sea Cups Glass $60 each LaTaya Johnson Teacher: Mrs. Green, Sharon Massey,Beyvan Schantz and keith Koi Ceramic NFS Koy Metal NFS

MCG Invitational

Artist Statement Most of the work I currently make doesn’t have much to say. People always tell me “There has to be some kind of meaning behind your artwork, there’s a meaning to everything.’’ I don’t put meanings or stories behind my work; there isn’t some place of hidden emotions or stories that these pieces come from. I make them simply because they make me happy, and that I want people to come up with their own meaning for the pieces I make, the emotions that are coursing through them as they look at something I made. I don’t want them to feel a certain type of way when they see my art because I tell them to. I want them to dwell on their own emotions and thoughts when they see something I made. Sagar Kamath Teacher: Heather White Lion with Grapes Printmaking $100 Artist Statement For this piece I wanted to create an image with a lot of texture to highlight the use of the linoleum. Drawing from previous experience using relief, I was able to plan out a design that was complex and interesting using just one color. Aleksei Kaminski Teacher: Shannon Pultz Madds and Jacob in a Dream Pen and Ink NFS Artist Statement As an artist, I illustrate and document from my imagination and observations. I specifically focus on the movement of people in the world, and facial expression. I’m profoundly interested by the structure of the face and how we can change our facial expressions simultaneously. I also base much of my artwork by focusing on the composition of my own observations, whether if I’m in a market, in a public square, or even in a secluded area. I relish drawing and documenting busy layouts that are yet distinguishable. For most of my work, I use mediums such as acrylic or oil paint, pen and ink, and film or digital

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Student artists photography. Furthermore, I hope for viewers to examine my work and recognize the minuscule details that bring each of my works into one unified piece.

paintings that represent me and the person I am becoming as an artist.

Emma Kennedy Teacher: Jacques Baynes

Celtic Lily Pencil NFS

Harley Quinn Pencil $100 Untitled Charcoal $200 Graffiti Bus Rider Colored Pencil $200 Artist Statement All four of these pieces involve human subjects, some realistic and some surrealistic. I focus on the human form because it is one of the most versatile expressers of emotion. To draw a human being is to freeze an emotion in place for all to see. Andrew Lowery Teacher: Mary Barr Woven Acrylic $525 Self Acrylic $350 Dreads Pencil $225 Artist Statement Studying the human form and observing nature are two of my favorite things to do when I make art. I decided to take images from nature and pictures of different people and blend them together to create intriguing juxtapositions that convey how similar raw human nature and the environment around us actually are. I paint odd compositions with unusual colors that add interest to my pieces. I think that it has also allowed me to view things in a different light and to appreciate details in life that others may not normally notice. With these ideas I have started a series of unique

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LaShawn Parks Teacher: Shannon Pultz

Artist Statement My art work means so much to me, it’s a little insane. Both of the sketches were done on my free time, not part of a curriculum. I feel they interpret my style in a unique way because I wasn’t trying to force my creativity out on a sheet of paper. Those sketches show how in the right environment, anything can happen. For me, painting is just the most free art form you can do, while it also being very disciplined. Knowing when and where to place the paint on the canvas. Honestly making mistakes are the best part because they can be so beautiful in the end. Its so hard to stop any project I work on once I start. Ali Pirl Teacher: Jacques Baynes Dead Bird Acrylic NFS Fortune Teller Pen and Ink NFS Artist Statement This piece is an intricately detailed portrait of a mysterious woman gazing into a crystal ball. The tarot cards arranged in front of the fortune teller reveal a message of optimism and overcoming obstacles, a sign of psychic good will. The piece is meant to convey a sense of mysticism and fantasy. The crystal ball is a symbol of light and hope for the future. Ralph Pistorius Teacher: Mary Barr White Mixed Media $420 Self Portrait Oil Pastel $1000

MCG Invitational

Dead Bird Acrylic NFS Artist Statement All of this work is based on my appreciation and inspiration derived from studying the work of Cy Twomly, Jean Dubuffet and the processes and philosophies that they employed. I was also influenced by early German expressionists when working on the painting of the Inuit man skinning a baby whale, and my self portrait, in the gestural mark making techniques. The process for my experimental pieces was based on the notion of concrete art, and the work created through Dubuffet’s ‘art brut’ movement. That is, art, stripped of it’s responsibility to convey reality accurately, or to portray it as beautiful and graceful. I was also influenced by the work of Cy Twomly during this process, as much of his work is based on automatic writing and stream of consciousness. In order to get myself in that headspace, I was reading Naked Lunch by William Burroughs and listening to Pulse Demon by Merzbow, as I feel these accurately match the aesthetic ideals of noise and the vileness inherent in human existence. I feel as though, in that respect, the painting titled “White” is most representative of this idea, since even in a painting that is completely white, filth surfaces. Jameelah Platt Teacher: Mary Barr Sit In Acrylic NSF The Ladder Acrylic NFS Cactus Soup Acrylic $325 Untitled Acrylic $375 Artist Statement My pieces celebrate the juxtaposition of movement and free flowing figures. Emphasis is giving to chiaroscuro lighting, traditional and nontraditional

Student artists colors. It’s very important that my work conveys energy, and exhibits sound tone and a since of life. It’s fundamental that technique and form help define and drive the viewers emotionally. Nothing is more valuable than capturing the audience’s attention. This year I have practiced multiple approaches to painting techniques; defining my own painting style. Maturing as an artist and growing as a painter, I hope to explore painting with more vivid compositions and expressive methods. Deaven Spruiel Teacher: Denise Suska Green Centaur Mixed Media $75 Wolf Pack Acrylic $50 Artist Statement What made me make the centaur was that I wanted this piece to discribe me in some way. Since my zodiac sign is Sagittarius, I thought a centaur would be the best thing. I incorporated the bow and arrow because Sagittarius like to get straight to the point. I also made the world holder because during that time I had a lot of problems going through my life. When I painted “Wolf Pack,” it was during a time when I felt alone. I tried to capture my emotion in this piece. Breanna Stanton Teacher: Mary Barr, Jaques Baynes Jacob Acrylic NFS Wes Acrylic NFS Andrew Acrylic NFS Artist Statement These pieces are part of an untitled and unfinished series. It started with a theme centered around ethnicity in regards to skin color. While the pieces illustrate figures of different races, a lot of similar tones are used, representing our

interconnection. However, these pieces are not to be considered with a themed lens, but with an open mind and an appreciation for color and form. Charles Tyler Teacher: Heather White Untitled Printmaking $100 Artist Statement I am very interested in perspective. In these piece, I created a fantasy world with several vanishing points. Using several different line widths and styles, I tried to use the medium to use the contrast of lights and darks to make depth. Icarus Pen and Ink NFS Materialization Ceramic NFS Self Portrait Pencil NFS Artist Statement I enjoy doing art because it allows me to express some of my ideas in a way that would be quite difficult to do otherwise. My medium of choice is usually graphite or pen but I sometimes use other mediums such as paint and clay. These are some of my more realistic pieces of work, though much of what I do are also more akin to the ink drawing in this portfolio in that they are more fantasy based. Most of the time, I generate ideas though thumbnail drawings to explore various ideas and compositions before committing to the final piece. I tend to used perspective drawing techniques and photo references when I’m not doing life drawings/studies to make the my art more convincing and to give them a sense of depth. Eva Vislisel Teacher: Ms.T Lida and the Swans Textile $900 Deer in Headlights

MCG Invitational

Printmaking $750 Artist Statement These are my favorite pieces I did my junior year of high school. Each piece involved a process I was trying for the first time. These pieces all mean something to me and one was even a collaboration with my friend Gretta that I will never forget. Rosalea Williams Teacher: Tenanche Golden Le Cirque Acrylic, Pen and Ink $60 Artist Statement For this piece, I began by looking at images of circus posters from the 1920’s. I was able to draw inspiration from the compositions and subject matter of the posters, as well as the illustrative work of artist Devue Darcy. I originally drew this piece using pen and ink with India ink overlays, but made the decision to screen print copies of it as well. The screen printed posters made it possible for me to ensure that the colors remained uniform, and the reproduction of it emulated the intended use of circus posters. Using strong areas of contrast and distorting the proportions of the figures in this piece were techniques that I tried to use in order to add visual interest.

Pittsburgh Carrick Kiera Manus Teacher: Ruth Hendricks Baby Bouquet Digital Photography $25 Anti-Social Digital Photography $25 Artist Statement I take photos to express my outlook on my environment. I try to capture every moment of my life in a frame. I want my peers to see my outlook on different things. Photography has been a great outlet for my creative expression.

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Student artists Taryn McDonough Teacher: Michael Dean Brass Bracelet Metal NFS Artist Statement I chose to make this bracelet because I felt like it fit me. It looked interesting and more of a challenge to make. It was the first project of the year and I wanted to do something new that I would actually wear. It took time and effort cutting all the jump rings and forming it into this particular design, but it was worth it because I really enjoyed the process. Cody Monfredi Teacher: Elizabeth Huffman The Grimm Reaper Ceramic NFS Shelly Scott Teacher: Ruth Hendricks Angel from Above Digital Photography $25 Madison Stepanovich Teacher: Ruth Hendricks Distorted View Digital Photography $25 Janairis Vazquez Teacher: Michael Dean Iguaca Metal NFS Artist Statement My piece represents my mother and my home. Parrots are a symbol for someone that has beauty, guide for wisdom, communication and thinking before speaking; all these traits describe my mother. This Totem also represents my home, Puerto Rico, because our Puerto Rican Amazon Parrot, also known as the Iguaca, is close to extinction.

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Pittsburgh Obama 6-12 Allahna Brown Smith Teacher: Donna Hetrick Most Wanted: Laziness Ceramic NFS Artist Statement I made these self-portraits in collaboration with the Andy Warhol Museum. They are related to the Most Wanted Men posters that Warhol made for the 1964 World’s Fair. I used underglazes and a screen print to produce these colorful mug shots. Rhonna Ly Teacher: Donna Hetrick Sinking Reverie Ceramic $25 Elena Matos Teacher: Richena Brockinson Strict Models Digital Photography $40 American Porch Digital Photography $40 Artist Statement I strive to see the little things in life that others might not notice. I strive to be observant of everything, and find the hidden things that nobody sees. Avi Rudich Teacher: Donna Hetrick Winnie the Pooh Pot Ceramic NFS R2D2 3D Print NFS Artist Statement Two hats were on a hat rack. A person came by and picked one up. It said to the other: “You stay here; I’ll go on ahead.”

MCG Invitational

Ashley Williams Teacher: Donna Hetrick Itsy Bitsy Spider Ceramic NFS Artist Statement This handbuilt ceramic work is a depiction of one of my favorite nursery rhymes. I tried to incorporate all the lyrics into one visual image.

Pittsburgh Science and Technology Senque Little-Poole Teacher: Mr. Gouker Snap Video NFS Put the Pigs in the Pen Textile $25 Artist Statement My art is an expression of myself and my environment, taking a critical view of social, political and cultural issues. I don’t set out to produce art about one particular subject. Often times as an African American artist I’m expected to produce work centered on African American life. I find that while my art does encompass this, it also extends past this. My work tends to focus on emotion, reactions, and environments. I depict emotion through the deliberate use or lack of color in my pieces. My work with graphic design is my most reactionary work. The subject matter of these pieces is usually social commentary in reaction to current events, or societal habits. What I want people to understand about my art is that it is an extension of my life. My influences are first and foremost everything I, see, feel and experience, but I love and am inspired by music. I’ve never liked to explain a certain piece of work - if you’ve made a picture and that’s how you wanted it to be, hopefully it can speak for itself.

STuDENT ARTISTS PrOPel andreWs st Javier Arreola Teacher: Autumn Ghubril Polychrome-child 3 Mixed Media $60 Artist Statement The art I chose to display represents evolution. It’s the change over time, the progress of life as an artist who once was in their prime, fell back, and then rose to create once again. The pieces that are here are from different time periods. One is something I created in eighth grade but edited to be more refined for the now. Another is from my freshman year, creating the door of change from middle school to high school. The next piece is actually an artwork I submitted for last year’s invitational but it was not chosen. Even through trial and error, I still continue to try. The last is a collection of artwork that I transferred to clothing this year. Most dress how they feel; what could be stronger than wearing a drawn interpretation of the way you feel? I wanted

to express my feelings about approaching my last moments of high school by reflecting on the four years and also anticipating the coming years. I want all my work not to be looked at individually but view it as a whole--to be seen as an evolution inspiring the change that is within oneself. devonte hill Teacher: Autumn Ghubril thoughts of tomorrow Mixed Media $50

because I take my time, get creative and put my feelings into it. I have been in art class for almost three years and now I’m realizing what it takes to do awesome work. I give props to my teacher Mrs. Ghubril because without her help, my art would be very plain and boring. She and I have both witnessed my development over the years; I have achieved a lot in this art class. Oh by the way, Mrs. Ghubril is the best art teacher. Angelic hutchinson Teacher: Autumn Ghubril

Artist Statement From an artist’s point of view, I would say I like to do a variety of artwork. The thing that motivates me is my creative mind; when I see an image in my head, I put it to paper. If I had to choose a favorite, it would be the collage because it was all me--all about me. That picture was a real feeling that I had and wanted to express to everyone. I feel that artwork can be used for two reasons: to express yourself and/or feelings you’re experiencing or just to be creative. I believe my artwork turns out so nicely

Bad Light Printmaking $50 Artist Statement My social issue is about misconception. I feel that people spend too much time with their focus on the nice looking things and not what is right. It’s really sad that people don’t want to understand the meaning of something and it’s value. My picture reflects on this because on the bottom right corner is supposed to be God. He isn’t very appealing, but not everything has to

MCG JAZZ 2015-16 season

YELLOWJACKETS october 3 MS. LISA FISCHER & GRAND BATON october 9 AN EVENING WITH AL JARREAU october 14 IGOR BUTMAN & THE MOSCOW JAZZ ORCHESTRA october 23

Pittsburgh’s Premier Wholesale greenhouse Locally grown Phalaenopsis Orchids, Hardy Hydrangeas, Hardy Hibiscus, Poinsettias, hanging baskets and other specialty plants!

DreW m athieson Center for Horticultural and Agricultural Technolog y An Affiliated Organization of Manchester Bidwell Corporation

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KEN PEPLOWSKI & GARY SMULYAN / BILL O’CONNELL LATIN JAZZ ALL-STARS november 6 DAVID SANBORN november 19 DAVID BENOIT CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE TO CHARLIE BROWN WITH GUEST JANE MONHEIT december 4 PITTSBURGH JAZZ ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY WITH GUEST ANN HAMPTON CALLAWAY december 12

ARTURO O’FARRILL & THE AFRO LATIN JAZZ ORCHESTRA february 12 MACK AVENUE SUPER BAND february 20 AN EVENING WITH SAVION GLOVER & JACK DEJOHNETTE february 26 MGP’S GOIN’ HOME TOUR march 4 & 5 THE HOT SARDINES march 11 SMITHSONIAN JAZZ MASTERWORKS ORCHESTRA march 18 & 19 PITTSBURGH JAZZ ORCHESTRA WITH GUEST HUBERT LAWS april 2 SFJAZZ COLLECTIVE april 22

mcgjazz.org // 412.322.0800

MCG INVITATIONAL

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Student artists be about beauty. The phoenix with the rainbow surrounding it is supposed to be the devil. The devil was the most beautiful angel, but he fell. Let’s take a flower, for example. It is very beautiful and it gives off a great scent, but it is poisonous and will kill whatever tries to eat or come near it. Siobhan Robinson Teacher: Autumn Ghubril Collage Self Portrait Mixed Media NFS Artist Statement In my collage, I wanted to show a fierce look on my face because I was in a new school. I heard high school was very different from middle school, so I wanted to show how fierce I was. The red was supposed to be like fire because I think that fire is fierce. I wanted the red to pop so I used blue and indigo as a background. I found a quote by Kate Forsyth that expressed exactly how I felt: “May my heart be kind, my mind fierce, and my spirit brave.” Miasinque Smith Teacher: Autumn Ghubril Puppet Master Digital Photography $40 Uprising Sculpture $60 Artist Statement

What inspired me to be an artist was seeing my dad paint and draw every day; it inspired me to find art in everyday life. Sometimes the way video games are designed really brought out a passion for art, as well. When I started going to Propel, I took art classes, so I began doing more and more with my interest in art. The projects I brought home impressed my parents and they encouraged me to continue pursuing art. Before long, I had a portfolio of sketches and pictures, including the ones I am submitting now. Ke’ira Williams Teacher: Autumn Ghubril

Artist Statement My art expresses the things in life and/ or images of what life could be. My art is also unique. It’s unique because it takes you to the setting of my art work. What also makes it unique are the patterns and things that you wouldn’t imagine being put together. I’m doing this because I love art and I love to explore different ways to make my art look different/ unique. I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. Also, when I went to art museums I would always push myself to try something new besides just drawing. It’s the fact that I love art so much that pushes me to make it look as best and as unique as I can. I try to draw or paint things that people would look at and actually feel they are

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Propel Braddock Hills Rikki White Teacher: Ms. Dean Mameha Watercolor $80

Seasons Changed Pen and Ink $35

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a part of. Art means a lot to me; I do it as much as I can and I try to complete as many works as I can. I draw whatever comes to mind or whatever I see outside or on social media. The tools I use are pencil, pen, sharpie, marker, scanners, and colored pencils.

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Melancholia Watercolor $120 Artist Statement I chose to title my portfolio “A Prism of Womanhood,” because it reflects how I feel about femininity. I am celebrating different aspects in each piece, because being a woman comes with many different sides. I wanted to take the ideas of beauty, emotions, motherhood, and sexuality, which are commonly related to women and not just represent them, but rejoice in their presence. These pieces are inspired by women in stories or myth and loosely based off important women in my life. These women all are worthy of praise and differ greatly, yet are united. It was important to me, as I continue to grow into my own womanhood, that I immortalize those that I aspire to live up to and are shaped by.

Eastside Gallery

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The top three winners of the Friedberg Scholarship will be featured in an exhibition May 24 to June 27th.

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MCG Invitational

Student artists I have two mediums used in this portfolio; acrylic and watercolor. I traditionally use watercolor for the great layering possibilities and clean color application. This year was the first year I attempted large pieces with acrylic, which was an exciting challenge. Working with both has really helped my gauge my growing skills and define my style.

The Neighborhood Academy Kamryn Randel Teacher: Sandra Moore Mountains 2 mosaic $100 Artist Statement I started out with a drawing and then decided on a color scheme. I found the tiles and adhered them to masonite. After grouting there was a lot of cleaning to do.The piece was sealed with a sealer. This project was fun and I enjoyed the long process. Brandy Taylor Teacher: Sandra Moore #2 Pencil Oil $40 Artist Statement I have been using oil paints this year for the first time. I like the fluidity of the medium. I have been drawing pencils for a few years, they are simple and it allows you to see subtle changes in the shadows and textures.

West Mifflin area high school Fallon Beaver Teacher: Brian Mann Bird Forshortening Mixed Media NFS Pen and Ink Bird Pen and Ink

NFS Artist Statement I am going to pursue art in college because I have always had a strong interest in improving my skills and utilizing them to help others. The artwork I am submitting is a reflection of my work in several art courses my senior year. I am experienced with using different media; I am presenting a mixed media piece-which includes chalk pastel, tempera paint, oil pastel, and colored pencil, a pen and ink piece, an oil pastel piece, and a pencil piece. However, I also work with ceramics and other media. I am inspired by real life and therefore focus on realism. I often get inspired by birds, which is why two out of the four pieces I am submitting depict different species of birds. I intend to keep challenging myself to practice drawing realistically so I can eventually get to photorealism.

Kyra Kuzma Teacher: Brian Mann Coyfish Colored Pencil NFS Released Acrylic NFS Artist Statement I enjoy doing art in many different mediums, I choose to do color pencil, pen and ink, and acrylic paint. I have enjoyed having art for the past four years, exploring many different themes and ideas. I feel is art is a way to relax, and express feelings and emotions. I would like to continue creating art in the future, although I’m not pursuing a career in the arts.

Carly Fuga Teacher: Brian Mann Skull Butterfly Charcoal NFS Artist Statement All of the pieces I have included range from my entire high school career in art so far. I have a still life of perfume bottles done my freshman year completed in only pencil. Second, I have a drawing of a cat’s face from my sophomore year also completed in pencil. My other two pieces, including the ant under a magnifying glass and the skull butterfly, are from my current junior year. The ant drawing is done in a pencil medium as well. However, the skull butterfly is done in a charcoal medium. I use pencil as the medium for most of the projects I have done because I like the control I have over it. I can layer the pencil to better shade than I can with other mediums. I also enjoy using charcoal because I like the intense contrast of dark and light it can give a drawing. I like the choices I have made to submit these drawings because it showcases my whole art career up till now, and really shows my improvement as an artist. In the future I hope to grow in my abilities and find a style to my artwork.

MCG Invitational

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