February is Black History Month, which honors the culture and legacy of Black Americans all across the country. San Dimas High School has chosen to honor the month in multiple ways, like trivia questions and movie nights. The art program is recognizing the month with an art collection, displayed in the BCA starting on February 20.

The display debuted on the 20th, and the moment one walked through the doors, it was clear that an impressive showcase of art awaited. There were tall displays of art pieces created by different art students here at San Dimas High School.

Some pieces were created with water colors, others were made with pencil, and one piece was even a 3D model, created by Jade Xia with supplies like wood and foam. This piece is meant to simulate architecture from the world around us, and was inspired by Theaster Gates’ Doschester project. It is pictured in the cover.

One piece that was quite eye-catching was created by Michelle Garcia. She created a drawing of her cat, inspired by the artist Derrick Adams. The story behind her piece starts out on a sad note. “When first creating this piece, my cat had gone missing, and I thought this project was a perfect way to memorialize her,” said Garcia. That emotion certainly made its way into her piece. Fortunately, the sad event that somewhat inspired the piece had a happy ending. “Luckily, she returned.”

Each artist got to write a small piece about their artwork, and this piece was displayed next to their work. Additionally, each art piece was inspired in some way by a Black artist, and that artist’s general background was posted next to the art. For example, sophomore Addy Andersen chose Wesley Clark to inspire her work. “Every word I used in my original artwork was inspired by his works, and every detail represents his legacy,” said Andersen.

The display on the 20th was attended by many different members of staff, fellow student, and more. While observing the visitors, one could hear them gushing over the different art pieces, discussing the meaning behind them, and excitedly pointing when they realized that they knew the artist personally.

Overall, the art pieces displayed were captivating, and their inspiration from different Black artists was moving to read about and observe. The art, displayed in the BCA, is worthy of any San Dimas High School student’s visit!