Several students from Leominster High School showcased their artwork in a local exhibit held by the Sterling Arts Collaborative (SAC) on November 8 and 9, 2023. This marked a significant milestone for the school, as it was the first time the institution participated in an SAC event. Alongside the students, art teacher and department head Shelly Saben displayed one of her own paintings, making it her inaugural appearance in an art exhibition.
Saben expressed her excitement about the event, emphasizing the pride and enthusiasm displayed by her students. “The enthusiasm the students feel and the pride they have in their work is such a wonderful thing to experience,” said Linnea Romhanyi, a fellow art teacher at LHS. “Seeing their work hung next to other adult artists gives them a sense of accomplishment and underscores that art is a lifelong pursuit.”
The exhibit featured a diverse range of artists, from children in elementary school to adults over 99 years old. The pieces included photographs, paintings, and various forms of artistry. The Sterling Arts Collaborative took to social media to highlight the engagement of exhibiting artists who interacted with attendees, sharing insights about their work. They invited the community to follow their Facebook page for updates on future events and to view images showcasing local talent.
Among the students whose artwork was displayed were juniors Lola Couture, Ivan Kaidalin, and Huynh Tran, as well as seniors Sid Imbriani, Kenzie Moyen, Avin Ruiz, Erin Sargent, and Natalie Smith. Sophomore Sophie Lopez from the Leominster Center for Technical Education Innovation also participated.
Saben reflected on the importance of this event, noting, “It was wonderful to have an opportunity to showcase our students’ work in the fall. All the other exhibitions and art competitions we submit work to are in the spring season.” She expressed hope for continued collaboration with SAC to further expose students to community opportunities.
The event held special significance for Saben, as she displayed her painting titled “Kids Boots” alongside a pastel drawing created by her mother, Joanne Fortin. After dedicating 30 years to teaching and raising her children, Saben resumed her artistic pursuits when she enrolled in a master’s program in her late 40s. “Exhibiting my work was something I hadn’t thought much about; it was never really a priority for me artistically,” she shared. “Teaching and mentoring students was what brought me joy.”
Saben credited her mother for encouraging her to take the leap into exhibiting her art. “She literally took a painting off my wall to submit to the SAC fall art show! I love her for that, and for all the encouragement she has given me over the years,” she added.
The turnout and engagement at the exhibit underscored the vibrant artistic community in Sterling, as well as the dedication of local educators in nurturing the next generation of artists. With plans for future collaborations, the partnership between Leominster High School and the Sterling Arts Collaborative promises to enrich the local cultural landscape.
