UPDATE: Several talented students from Leominster High School showcased their artwork at the inaugural Sterling Arts Collaborative fall exhibit, held on November 8 and 9, 2023. This landmark event marks a significant milestone for both the students and their art teachers, Shelly Saben and Linnea Romhanyi, who participated for the first time.
The exhibit took place at the historic 1835 Town Hall in downtown Sterling, featuring contributions from artists of all ages, including students and a remarkable artist aged over 99. The display included a variety of mediums such as photographs, paintings, and more, providing a platform for local talent to flourish.
Romhanyi expressed the profound impact of the event, stating,
“The enthusiasm the students feel and the pride they have in their work is such a wonderful thing to experience.”
The students had the unique opportunity to see their artwork displayed alongside established adult artists, instilling a sense of accomplishment and illustrating that art is a lifelong journey.
Notable students whose art was exhibited include juniors Lola Couture, Ivan Kaidalin, and Huynh Tran, along with seniors Sid Imbriani, Kenzie Moyen, Avin Ruiz, Erin Sargent, and Natalie Smith, and sophomore Sophie Lopez from the Leominster Center for Technical Education Innovation (CTEi).
Saben, who has dedicated 17 years to teaching at LHS, shared her excitement, saying,
“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 emphasized the importance of this collaboration with the Sterling Arts Collaborative, stating that it could pave the way for future opportunities for her students.
This event was particularly special for Saben, as it marked her first exhibit alongside her own painting, titled “Kids Boots,” which she displayed next to a pastel drawing by her mother, Joanne Fortin. Reflecting on her artistic journey, Saben noted how her mother encouraged her to share her work, a pivotal moment that led her back to painting after years of focusing on teaching.
The Sterling Arts Collaborative has garnered praise for providing a space where local artists can connect with the community. Following the exhibit, they encouraged attendees to engage with their social media channels for photos and updates on future events.
This exhibition not only highlighted the creativity and skill of Leominster students but also reinforced the vital role of community support in fostering artistic talent. As the local art scene continues to grow, all eyes will be on how this collaboration evolves, offering more opportunities for young artists in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and follow the Sterling Arts Collaborative for future events and showcases that celebrate local talent.
