DETROIT, MI (JUNE 7, 2023) — The Detroit Institute of Arts is delighted to announce the return of the Wayne County High School Art Exhibition, featuring work by high school students from across Wayne County. The exhibition will run from June 16 to July 16, 2023, and will include more than 80 works of art, including paintings, mixed media, and photography.

All students in grades 9 through 12 who attend public, charter, private, or home schools in Wayne County were eligible to submit artwork for consideration in the show. More than 400 entries were submitted, and the final artworks were selected by DIA educators.

“We are thrilled to continue this program and provide a platform for young artists from Wayne County to showcase their incredible talent,” said DIA Director Salvador Salort-Pons. “The Detroit Institute of Arts is committed to education and is honored to support and inspire the next generation of artists.”

A special event will be held June 22 to celebrate the exhibition’s opening. Wayne County Art Institute Authority member Renata Evans and Wayne County Executive Warren Evans will be in attendance.

“Art plays a significant role in shaping culture and society,” said Evans. “Through art, students can share their unique perspectives, ideas, and emotions, allowing us to see the world from fresh and innovative angles. Their creations can inspire, provoke thought, and ignite conversations on various topics. The DIA’s support and recognition of the artistic endeavors of these Wayne County students not only gives them hope but also reinforces their belief in their abilities. The recognition can have a profound impact on the student’s confidence and motivation to pursue their artistic passions.”

Here's what some of the student artists have to say: 

“I moved to Michigan just over a year ago, having no idea what it meant to be an artist in a new country. The DIA helped me grasp the culture of art and community in Detroit. It was one of the first places I visited, and having my art shown in the same establishment after growing and finding myself fills me with a sense of pride.”
Rhea Dearhouse (junior, Northville High School)

“It's amazing that I can influence people simply by hanging a painting on the wall in the right place, where it can be seen by so many. Showing my work at the DIA among that of superstars is an amazing symbol of the potential I have to contribute to the world.”
Dorothy Sidau (senior, Divine Child High School)

“To show your work at the DIA, I believe it means that you have the courage to let your artwork be seen and recognized by a multitude of different people. You never know who could be moved and influenced by seeing your work, as it may create a domino effect of others aspiring and pushing to get their own work noticed as well.”
Amanda Consiglio (junior, Southgate Anderson High School)

“It’s important for me to show my artwork because I’m young and I would like to have someone be able to see what I’ve made. The art road is hard if you’re not able to take opportunities and have the privilege to put your art in places where it would be seen. I’m grateful for the ability to put my artwork in the DIA and have it in a place I don’t think I would have ever have pictured it being in.”
Sophie Moore (freshman, Salem High School)

“Having my work displayed at the DIA means more chances for my art and my name to be recognized.”
Olivia Van Acker (junior, Churchill High School)

For more information on behalf of the Detroit Institute of Arts contact Megan Hawthorne, [email protected]  248-561-3460

For more information on behalf of Wayne County, contact Tiffani Jackson, [email protected] 313-421-9192