AAUW President Barb Wismer welcomes high school arts exhibition guests.
As part of AAUW’s mission to advance gender equity and celebrate the arts, the Saint Cloud Area (MN) Branch participates in and recognizes two artists among the Paramount Center for the Arts’ annual Juried High School Art Exhibition.
The artwork by high school students is on display through April at the Paramount Center for the Arts, 913 West St. Germain St., in St. Cloud, MN.
Our 2025 AAUW Selections
Peacock on a Cherry Blossom Branch
Yasli Jimenez Pesqueda
Melrose High School
Judge’s comments:
- “Yasli Jimenez Pasqueda notes that the peacock symbolizes both beauty and pride as well as the trap of focusing on imperfection. No problem for this young artist as this piece is about as perfect as one can get.”
“The work created of pieces of glass is visually stunning especially under the picture lights. Color, balance and creativity are apparent in this delightful whole.
Self Portrait
Abbigail Knudsen
New London-Spicer High School
Judge’s comments:
- This is a happy young woman, using striking colors and shadows. We selected this one for an AAUW award because we believe it encapsulates our mission to help girls and women.
- “The artist statement says it all: ‘My goal when creating this collage was to let my personality shine through it. I chose blue accents and flowers because they are two of my favorite things and I believe they are representations of myself. I recreated a happy photo of myself because I feel that it encompasses my personality!’ “
AAUW Member Ginny Bisek and her husband, Jim, search for their grandson’s work at the exhibition.
The show and competition complements the work of area art teachers and allows students to participate in an arts-based experience among peers. The show generally features the work of about 100 area students.
Our Committee
- Kathryn Gainey, arts educator
- Joyce and Dennis Hummel
- Mary Lou Lenz, arts advocate
We are grateful to the St. Cloud area high school art educators for their guidance and expertise and to the Paramount Center for the Arts for continuing to be a strong supporter for the arts through education and community support.