Meramec Valley R-III School District has reason to celebrate as Pacific High School proudly unveils its newly completed Visual Arts Gallery, a permanent space dedicated to showcasing student artwork. This milestone marks the first time the gallery, located within the high school, has been filled with student creations since its construction was completed earlier this month.
The gallery was made possible by a grant from the Bridge Foundation, which provides financial support to Meramec Valley R-III teachers to enhance academic growth and bridge gaps between home and school. The grant proposal, written by PHS art teacher Mr. Joseph Fuchs in the Spring of 2023, was awarded in the Fall of 2023, setting in motion the creation of this dedicated space for student expression.
"We are thrilled to have a permanent gallery space to display our students' incredible work," said Ms. Hall, another of the art educators involved in the project. "It’s inspiring to see how the gallery allows students to appreciate and celebrate their artistic achievements."
Thanks go out to the Bridge Foundation for its generous contribution, as well as to Dr. Kania, former PHS principal, and Mr. Orris, PHS principal, for facilitating the gallery’s construction. Special recognition is extended to Mr. Pipes for his efforts in making the gallery a reality and to Mr. Herbst for his ongoing support of the visual arts program.
The gallery will remain a central part of Pacific High School's visual arts curriculum, with plans to showcase student work year-round. It will also serve as the home for the school’s annual art shows, offering students a professional setting to display their artistic talents.
Students have already begun viewing a selection of their peers' artwork, taking pride in seeing their creativity on display. This new space is expected to foster a greater sense of community and collaboration within the visual arts department, inspiring future generations of artists.
The Meramec Valley R-III community looks forward to the many exhibits and shows that will come through the gallery celebrating the talent and hard work of PHS students.
