Student Art Exhibit Opens at Tiverton Town Hall

From mysterious to whimsical, in black and white to vibrant hues, the latest exhibit at the displays the artistic spirit of 26 school aged Tiverton children. Even the briefest glance at these works suggests that creative genius lurks in Tiverton. Those who visited Town Hall for the opening reception of “School Art” on Sunday seemed to agree.

As occasional visitors strolled into the dimly lit town hall, they drifted toward walls brightened by track lighting aimed at the students’ work. From a gentle, yet riveting, pastel portrait titled “Pastel Lady with Blue Hair” by Megan Kelchner, to the playfully simple yet boldly multi-colored “Chicken on Plaid,” and “Flowers for Coffee Cup,” by Lily Hanson, some of the work here suggests an artistic intention that transcends age.  

As viewers moved from work to work, their expressions changed from serious to delighted, thoughtful to relaxed. One piece that gained everyone's interest is a dress, fashioned from neckties pieced together and (fittingly) tied in back, created by Chantal Galipeau. As those in attendance browsed through, it became apparent that art has the capacity to engage an audience as well as alter emotions.

James Bartley, former gallery director of the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River, attended the opening reception with his wife Michelle. Although they say they often attend exhibits by local artists, the couple was impressed by the work of young people who, according to Bartley, “show promise.”

“We follow art openings,” Bartley noted, “and we see a lot of talent.”

He adds that his advice to beginning artists is to get work out there to be seen publicly, which involves not only the production of a piece, but also submitting it ready to be displayed.

Secretary of the Tiverton Arts Council, Mary Sexton, who greeted visitors to the reception, also showed her sense of both pride and delight in the exhibit. She said that as part of the Arts Council’s mandate, they must invite a variety of artists to exhibit work at Town Hall.

“We try to do something every year where we invite children’s work,” she said, while gesturing around the room. “Some of these pieces are lovely."

Sexton, who says she is “pretty sure” most of the students whose work is exhibited are “first timers,” is visibly pleased with the work on display. She added that the Council is committed to engaging students in the arts and remains active in getting afterschool art programs organized.  

In addition, several arts-related conversations are currently being discussed by the arts council. 

“As a town appointed group, we give input regarding art related matters,” Sexton said.

One of the council’s recommendations, according to Sexton, is to design a new plaque for the Sakonnet River Bridge when it is completed. However, she notes, “there is really no money for it.”

Nevertheless, although funding is limited, Sexton says she is hopeful about the future of the arts in Tiverton. Certainly, if the current exhibit at Town Hall is an indicator, there is no shortage of young people here whose artistic talent could expand beyond economic restrictions.

The current exhibit will remain on display until April 29. Upcoming exhibits open to all area artists will include “Flora and Fauna,” “salvage+art,” and “Little Pictures.”

The exhibition runs from March 8 to April 29 at Town Hall, 343 Highland Road, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Students participating are:
Marni Burke
Maddie McGreavy
Zach Guerette
Taylor Flynn
Arianna Perry
Mandy Ryll
Joel Giaconetti
Brianna Pacheco
Coral Rodrigues
Daniel Nunez
Megan Kelchner
Tim Rego
Tyler Fortin
April Bento
David Perry
Chantal Galipeau
Ashley Destramps
Jackie King
Victoria Fryzel
Matt Delco
Mike Molenski
Ted Tsongas
Alex Corr
Alli Raposa
Andrew DeCotis
Stacy Ferreira