MWCC Hosts 40th Annual Exhibition of High School Art at the East Wing Gallery
According to Joyce Miller, Chair of the Art Department and Gallery Director at MWCC, “This exhibition is one of our most popular and meaningful community events. For 40 years, it has provided an opportunity to celebrate the work of high school students and recognize the dedication of their teachers, families, and supporters.“
The 40th Annual Regional Exhibition of High School Art held in the East Wing Gallery showcased exceptional student work from eight area high schools, highlighting the creativity, dedication, and artistic achievement of young artists across the region. The exhibition featured a diverse collection of two- and three-dimensional works, including ceramics, painting, drawing, and mixed media.
Participating schools included Athol High School, Contoocook Valley Regional High School, Fitchburg High School, Leominster High School, Quabbin Regional High School, Ralph C. Mahar Regional High School, Shepherd Hill Regional High School, and Wachusett Regional High School.
During the exhibition’s awards ceremony, ten students received cash awards for outstanding artistic achievement. Works were evaluated based on originality, technical skill, and creative expression.
2026 Award Winners: Aidan Marony, ConVal Regional High School — Wheel-thrown ceramic bottle — Lucy Morris, ConVal Regional High School — Ceramic lidded vessel —Erin Sargent, Leominster High School — Narrative watercolor illustration — Brynn Dunphy, Quabbin Regional High School — Geometric assemblage wall piece — Romelle Romey, Shepherd Hill Regional High School — Still life painting — Alaiza Wijangco, Shepherd Hill Regional High School — Collage (grizzly bear and salmon) —Julia Daly, Wachusett Regional High School — Carved ceramic vase — Bianka Mazierkowski, Wachusett Regional High School — Portrait — Dahlia Vargas, Wachusett Regional High School — Charcoal drawing — Allison DeLeire, Wachusett Regional High School — Painting (girl in pink dress) — The MWCC Art Club also selected Alaiza Wijangco for its special Art Club Award.
MWCC extended its appreciation to Chrystal Voorheis, administrative assistant, and Kevin Oxford, gallery assistant and MWCC alum, for their contributions to organizing and installing the exhibition. “The quality of work in this year’s show was exceptional,” Miller added. “We are continually inspired by what students and educators accomplish, often with limited resources. We hope this experience encourages students to continue pursuing their artistic passions.”
