A splatter of creativity: the 2nd Annual Arts Festival showcases pieces from graphic design to pottery By the Advanced journalism, arts and media staff

Occurring on May 29 through May 31, the second Annual Redwood Arts Festival was open to students and visitors to showcase the artistic works of the student body. Greeted by teachers Susie Maxwell, Lauren Bartone or Bradford Butler at the door, family and friends were enthralled by the talented artwork of all art students. As groovy tunes from the speakers filled the room, viewers strolled between the displays of Ceramics 1-6, Advanced Placement (AP) Art & Design 3D (Ceramics), Drawing & Painting 1-6, AP Art & Design 2D (Drawing and Painting), Photography 1-6, Photography Honors 5-6 and an exhibition of projects done by AP Art History students.

"[The festival] shows the diversity of all of the programs we have, which is pretty cool. [We] have painting and drawing, ceramics, photography, graphic design, music and drama as well," Ceramics teacher Bradford Butler said.

The festival displayed artwork by Ceramics 1 student Sophie Staats, a diverse set of drawings by AP Studio Art student Fei Metaxas and unique pieces by AP Ceramics student Xin Van Horn.

Senior Miranda Wabl reflects on her past seasons playing on the Redwood soccer team, depicting it through a collage of studio art.

"As students continue to take [art classes], they start making artwork for themselves and not for the project, and so it becomes more personal. I think the quality improves, and they just really take ownership of their craft," Butler said.

Junior Melanie Canul presents her unique ceramic pieces with a special highlight on her centerpiece—a meticulously crafted human heart.

Capturing the attention of many with her Trader Joe’s painting, senior Hannah Ritola showcases her colorful pieces.

Throughout the school year, ceramics students have been working hard to perfect sculpting, painting pots and vases.

"[The ceramics program] has made me more creative, and I think that translates outside of school," Junior and Ceramics I student Owen Shawn said.

Placed with an array of other unique pieces, Grant Grobecker's dark blue vase, Samantha Armatta’s red arm piece and Alessandra Alloto's ceramic vase and pitcher catch the gym light with their interesting glazes.

Senior August Reed smiles in front of works from their AP 2D Art portfolio that convey their personal and social experiences through careful collages and the creative uses of office supplies.

Senior Ava Carlson’s work in AP Art portrays her friends through bright colors and wide brushstrokes.