A Night of Artistic Excellence
Student artists from around Huron County gathered for an evening of creativity and competition at a local art show. The event took place on Wednesday, offering high school students in grades 9 through 12 a unique opportunity to showcase their work to the community. The competition was judged by Jonathan Garn, assistant dean of arts at Delta College, who provided valuable feedback and recognition to the participants.

Event Details and Community Engagement
The art show was held on April 22 at Verona Hills Golf Club, starting at 6 p.m. and running until 8 p.m. During the evening, community members had the chance to view the artwork displayed throughout the banquet space. The judging process began at 6 p.m., with Garn carefully analyzing each piece. After his evaluation, he announced the winners and invited them to receive his comments directly.

Awards and Recognition
A variety of pieces were honored in different categories, including painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, adaptive art, and fine craft. Each category featured a select few works that received awards or honorable mentions. In total, Garn selected approximately 10 pieces to be recognized with either an award or an honorable mention. The recipients were given art supplies donated by Harjo’s Ben Franklin, Blick Art Supplies, and Exploring the Arts Huron County.

Participation from Multiple Schools
The event was open to high school students from several local schools, including Bad Axe, Caseville, Harbor Beach, HISD, Lakers, North Huron, and Ubly. This wide range of participation highlighted the strong interest in the arts among students in the area.

Background of the Judge
Jonathan Garn has a strong background in the arts. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University in 2000 and a Master of Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2005. Before joining Delta College in 2019, Garn served as an Art Center Administrator at the Torpedo Factory Art Center and spent a decade as an assistant professor at Spring Arbor University. His experience and expertise made him an ideal judge for the competition.
Conclusion
The local art show not only provided a platform for student artists to display their talents but also offered them meaningful feedback from a professional in the field. The event fostered a sense of community and appreciation for the arts, encouraging young creatives to continue pursuing their passions. With the support of local businesses and educational institutions, such events play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of artists.






