The Schuylkill Emerging Visions art exhibition celebrates the creativity and talent of local high school students in the Penn State Schuylkill area. Hosted by the Penn State Schuylkill Art Space, this annual event provides a professional platform for young artists to showcase their work, gain exposure, and receive recognition. The exhibition runs from January through February, creating community engagement and inspiring future generations of artists.
The exhibition is open to high school students (grades 9-12) from local school districts. Participants are nominated and selected by their respective school districts. Schools interested in participating should contact Lisa Robinson by August 1 to confirm your school's participation for the January exhibition.
The Schuylkill Emerging Visions art exhibition is made possible with the support of our sponsors the Bates Family.
Categories
Each category will feature nominations from the school districts with Penn State judging top per category, plus Best in Show:
- Drawing: Pencil, charcoal, ink, or pastel works on paper
- Painting: Acrylic, oil, watercolor, or mixed media on canvas or board
- Sculpture/3D Art: Ceramics, wood, metal, found objects, or installations
- Photography: Digital or film-based images, including edited works
- Digital/Media Art: Graphic design, animation stills, or digital illustrations
- Mixed Media: Collage, printmaking, fiber arts, or innovative hybrids
Participating districts manage the nomination process, deciding who participates and how entries are selected (e.g., via internal school competitions, teacher recommendations, or student applications). Districts submit a list of selected participants and their artworks to Penn State Schuylkill prior to winter break. Penn State Schuylkill will accept a maximum of two students per category. Artwork will be dropped off at Art Space during the first week of December. Dates and times will be announced.
Judging
- Originality and creativity (30%): How innovative and unique the artwork is, rewarding students who push boundaries and demonstrate personal expression rather than relying on clichés or direct copies.
- Technical skill and execution (30%): Focuses on the artist's command of their chosen medium and how well the work is crafted, emphasizing proficiency without requiring perfection.
- Composition and design (20%): Evaluates the visual structure and organization of the artwork, ensuring it effectively guides the viewer's eye and creates harmony or intentional tension. Balance of elements (e.g., symmetry/asymmetry, positive/negative space).
- Concept or message (20%): Looks at the depth of the idea behind the work, including any narrative, emotional impact, or social commentary. Clarity and strength of the underlying theme or story.
Awards
Top two winners per category, plus one overall Best in Show, judged by Penn State and announced at the opening ceremony. The opening ceremony will be the first Thursday, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., after the beginning of Penn State Spring Semester and will include an artist meet-and-greet, welcome remarks from Penn State Schuylkill, and light refreshments. Date will be announced.
- 1st Place: $100
- 2nd Place: $50
- Best in Show: $150
Rules and Guidelines
- Artwork Specifications: Maximum size 36" x 36" for 2D, 36" height for 3D. All 2D works must be ready-to-hang/display with frame and wire hanger. Each piece must have students full name and school district with title of artwork and category attached to the back.
- Originality: All entries must be original student work created within the past year; no AI-generated or plagiarized content.
- Liability: Penn State Schuylkill Art Space is not responsible for damage or loss of all but works will be handled with care.
- Promotion: Participants agree to have their work photographed for promotional use (e.g., social media, Penn State website).
Contact and Support
Lisa Robinson, co-chair of Penn State Schuylkill Art Space
Dr. DJ Higgins, co-chair of Penn State Schuylkill Art Space