Freeport High School made this year's celebration of Youth Art Month especially meaningful with the ribbon-cutting of the new "Gallery Without Walls" in the school atrium.
"There is no question that the arts are essential to every child's education," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. "We celebrate the arts in Freeport."
The exhibit is stationed just outside the school auditorium in the main lobby. It features newly installed key lights, 12 frames that will be changed regularly, folding sectionals to hold hanging art, and pedestals that hold 3-D work in lighted glass cases.
"Many years ago, Dr. Kuncham said he'd like to see a more professional gallery," said Catherine Rode-Flores, the district's visual arts facilitator, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. "He wanted the art to be seen in a more professional light." Rode-Flores coordinated the ribbon cutting ceremony and, with input from the art faculty, oversaw the design and installation of the exhibit space.
The work being displayed represents the best of the 120 participating art students. Art teachers Thomas Alma, Nicholas Cuccio, Catherine Rode-Flores, Jocelyn Rodriguez-McShan and Shaniqua Thompson oversee the selection process.
Visitors to the school who have passed through security can view the gallery. Youth Art Month has been celebrated across the country since 1961 and in Freeport schools since 2005.
