A reception to showcase Artspiration, an exhibit featuring 26 artworks – 13 pieces from students of East Side Union High School District, and 13 representing the high school-aged winners of the 2016 countywide Young Artists Showcase – was held today at Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC).
Artspiration is a community-backed movement to return creativity and innovation to students through the arts, with strategies developed by a team of administrators, teachers, parents, students, artists, and community leaders.
San José Vice Mayor Magdalena Carrasco, Assistant Director of Aviation John Aitken, and Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools Jon Gundry welcomed student artists and their family members, educators and other guests as the Artspiration exhibit was recognized publicly for the first time.
“The Artspiration exhibit is a win-win as we recognize future artists and leaders in our community and share their talents with a global traveling audience,” said Carrasco who also serves as the City Council Liaison to the Arts Commission. “The students’ artworks in this program will surely inspire and uplift millions of travelers personally, spiritually, and academically for years to come.”
Artspiration is an important enhancement to SJC’s art program with student artworks on display representing these high school districts:
East Side Union
Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union
Mountain View-Los Altos Union
San Jose Unified
Fremont Union
Palo Alto Unified
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our county students to have their artworks viewed by visitors from literally all over the world,” said Jon R. Gundry, County Superintendent of Schools. “When these young artists know that something they are very passionate about can inspire and positively affect so many others, it can really encourage their creativity.”
The 26 artworks are displayed in the Power Suite, located opposite Gate 18, a quiet place where domestic and international travelers alike can spend time being productive while waiting to board flights.
“I appreciate the partnership we have formed with students, leadership, educators, and others from six Santa Clara County high school districts, and it gives me great satisfaction to know the young artists and their families are viewing the displayed artworks for the first time today,” said Director of Aviation Kim Becker. “The Artspiration exhibit is another important contribution to the world-class passenger experience travelers expect from SJC.”
Artspiration is sponsored by University Art, and receives generous funding from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.
