In this year's district, art show artists from elementary through high school displayed various art forms. Work done in charcoal, paint, pencil drawings, pottery, and more showcased the imagination of Duncaville's student body.
Elementary through high school artists displayed paintings, charcoal drawings, pottery, and more.
Standing in front of colorful paintings of eyes and animals at the Duncanville ISD Art Show on Thursday, March 24, Byrd Middle School art teacher Curtis Ferguson choked up when he described the importance of teaching art.
"You can take a child who feels hopeless, and you give them light," he said, noting that art can be an outlet for students who struggle in a traditional classroom setting.
The teacher, now in his fifth year at Byrd Middle, emphasized that it's important for students to have chances like the Art Show to share their talented art with the community. The event showcased student creations from elementary through high school, including paintings, charcoal drawings, vases, masks, and more.
Alexandra Ulloa, a senior in Annette Valenzuela’s Advanced Placement art class, said she uses art to cope with difficult issues. One of the pieces she displayed, expressed her struggle after learning that her mother lost a child before Alexandra was born.
“Everything I draw is personal,” Alexandra said. “Art is a way for me to cope. It’s not just a hobby – it’s therapy.”
District fine arts director William Young said that district art teachers regularly bring out the best in their students. They act as a guide for learners to express their creativity through creation.
"When you allow students to showcase their talent, you allow them to say, 'I have value'," said Ferguson, who is also a professional artist outside of the classroom.
The art show gives students the chance to become professional artists themselves, as some attendees inquired into purchasing student artwork.
Senior Carolina Fletcher, who won Best in Show at this year's art show, is a product of Duncanville ISD’s art program.
Fletcher’s Best in Show piece, a black and white charcoal self-portrait, is a reflection of her experience in quarantine during the COVID pandemic.
"I didn't feel like me, and I wanted to capture that," she said, noting it took her 30 hours to complete.
She says being back in class motivates her to create more art. Her DHS AP art teacher Valenzuela also encourages her to push her limits and enters her in contests.
“What sets our district art program apart from others is our commitment to student success,” said Young. “Our teachers want students to receive all the praise and attention for their talents through art. That’s what is on display tonight – passion from our students and for our students.”