The student art show “Perfectly Imperfect” just wrapped up its May 2 to May 17 engagement in the Grubbs Gallery. It showcased a large variety of artwork from many art students, including Nancy Kang ’17, Emily Wu ’18, Trix Wilhems ’19, Amanda Shen ’19, and Keyu Lu ’20, among others. This event differs from others in that it is student-curated. Derrick Zhao ’18 played a big role in putting the show all together. Ms. Hume and Jiaying Tang ’17, also helped to organize and contribute.

There is an art show every year, and this is the second year Williston has had student curators. The art department always exhibits student art in May in the Grubbs Gallery, and the rest of the year they display artwork by professional artists.

Ms. Hume has students curate one show per year so that they can gain experience with what it means to be on the other side of exhibiting in a gallery and how one goes about curating, or choosing artwork, for a show. She added, “I also like that we have one show a year that is put on entirely by students and for students.”

For the show this year, Derrick and Jiaying were appointed to be the student curators. Derrick, in particular, worked tirelessly to make this show happen. Ms. Hume said he should be congratulated on a very successful exhibit.

This year’s theme was “Perfect Imperfection.” Derrick came up with the idea, which was inspired by an informal conversation with Mr. Roe. On a field trip with his Studio Art class, Derrick visited a gallery in New York City, and saw some very intriguing sculptures which caught his eye.

Derrick recalls, “I went closer to see the detail of the artwork. Mr. Roe, standing behind me, said, ‘Look at that! Do you see that crack on the surface? I love finding these imperfect details which makes every artwork unique.’”

Derrick thought it was interesting that even great work done by professional artists is not perfect, just like how humans are not perfect. He believes that, “these imperfections define who we are. Therefore, it is more important to share and test the ideas we have rather than worry about if these ideas are perfect.” The imperfection, either by mistake or purposefully made, adds a personal touch to the piece.

In order to try to encourage as many students as possible to submit their work, Derek talked to a lot of art students and made several announcements during the assembly to advertise the show.

Ms. Hume hopes that there will be a big turnout. “People should come see the art in the show to support their artist friends and peers the same way we attend sporting events and performances; to appreciate each others’ creative and expressive efforts and to acknowledge all the hard work that has gone into the creations.”

The goal for this show is trying to give every student an opportunity to show their talent and receive feedback from the alumni and the audience. Derrick tried to include as many works as possible. As long as the work sticks with the theme, he is willing to present the submissions.

All types of artwork were showcased, such as paintings, sculptures, clothing designs, drawings, and photographs.

Jiaying displayed three pieces of art. The time that she spent working on her pieces ranged from half an hour to six hours, and she tried to make her pieces creative, original, and unique. She loved how each piece had different colors, materials, dimensions, and techniques.

She noted, “it is always nice to showcase something you devoted effort into and something you are proud of. I have participated in a lot of art shows and this time Derrick and I are ever proud to present a chance to others to show their talent.”