K-12 fine arts festival puts best efforts of West Holmes students on display
MILLERSBURG ― The artistic talents of students throughout West Holmes District were on display Friday at the West Holmes K-12 Fine Arts Festival in a variety of mediums, from drawings and works of clay to singing and musical performances.
The fine arts festival was the result of the combined efforts of art teachers Sandy Miller, Amy Rohr, Anna Irwin and Kristen Bartman; vocal music teachers Kristen O'Brien, Stephanie Schwarzwalder and Alexander Looney; and band/instrumental teachers Steve Butcher and Blake Depinet. The festival featured works in clay, paints, pastels, markers, paper collages, scratch art, mixed media and graphic design, along with performances by high school, middle and elementary school choirs, bands and individuals.
"I think we had a good representation of all age groups in music and art," Rohr said. "It's fun to see the kids get excited to see their work. The elementary school PTOs did a great job of getting involved with the crafts, getting everyone involved."
Food trucks add to the fun
The addition of food trucks at the event encouraged families to make a night of it, Rohr added. Crazy Nate's BBQ and Amish Country Pizza were on hand, as well as Brain Freeze.
Parents, grandparents, friends and family all came out to experience the evening of fine arts, food and fun.
"It is so great to see what the kids are doing," said Betty McNutt, a retired teacher. "They are so creative and there is a lot of talent on display here."
A smooth transition
Butcher has enjoyed his first year as the high school band director, noting the program was left in outstanding shape by former director Brian Dodd, who retired after last year.
He said there is a lot of musical talent at the high school and events such as this give the students an opportunity to showcase their skills and have some fun in the process.
"The kids have been great to work with," Butcher said. "Brian made the transition really smooth for me, and the kids are performing at the level that is expected of them."
This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Music, art, food and fun on display at West Holmes Fine Arts Festival
