Teen Artes Exhibit Showcases Local Talent

A new exhibit by local high school students in the Teen Artes program, under the umbrella of Pajaro Valley Arts, opened in May in the PV Arts Porter Building on Main Street.

The show features mixed media, paintings, collage, ceramic sculpture and other mediums by four students from Watsonville, Aptos and St. Francis High schools as well as alumni, and teaching artists.
It was curated by Teen Artes participants in 2023-2024 with the help of local artist Josefina Rocha.
Teen Artes participants in the 2023/24 school year spent the year learning from professional teaching artists and their mediums and created works of art that have inspired them to further develop their artistic skills, organizers said.

“Our Teen Artes program strives to teach high school students about creative career fields that allow them to develop and expand their skills and knowledge. This program provides opportunities to meet and learn from local artists and creative professionals in Santa Cruz County,” said Josefina Rocha.
Yasmín Salas’ said, “I’ve always been shy and art was my main way to express myself, ideas, and creativity. What inspires me to create is my love for nature and my Mexican culture. I enjoy walking around Watsonville admiring the murals by local artists. I especially enjoy working with fellow teen artists from Watsonville. Teen Artes has been a supportive and creative hub for me and I loved meeting fellow young artists in Watsonville.”

Artist Bella Umeki-Martinez said she was pleased to be a part of the show.

“I feel so excited to be in the show,” she said. “I’m just happy to be a part of this great program; we put a lot into this show.” She said she next plans to attend San Francisco State College and major in studio art and art history.

The show runs through June 30 at the Porter Building, 280 Main St., with gallery hours on Wednesday through Sunday 11am-4pm.

By Tarmo Hannula