Coffee House showcases student art at SHS

Students and guests celebrated the arts last Wednesday night at Sisters High School. The auditorium was transformed into art galleries, stages and art studios. Pots were thrown, jewelry designed, canvases painted and clay sculpted as eager onlookers stared in amazement at the talent tucked into every corner.

Zoey Wavrin had more than 25 paintings on display as well as sketches of countless images.

"I love doing faces," she said. "It all just seems to flow."

Wavrin has captured images that draw in viewers with impressive details and bold use of color.

On stage, Americana Project students Jessica Wester and Jordan Williams sang a song written by Wester. Their soulful harmony and bold lyrics kept the crowd captivated. Throughout the evening, Americana Project students took the stage and performed original songs showcasing their talents as singer/songwriters.

Later, the choir sang "Blue Skies" under the direction of the new choir teacher, Rick Johnson. Jody Henderson's jazz band won over the crowd with lively tunes.

People strolled from place to place commenting on the caliber of work and how glad they were to see such a good turnout.

"The arts bring together many kids from different groups in the school," said parent Pam Wavrin. "The artists and musicians share top status at the school with the athletes. Most schools aren't like that."

Melissa Novotny came with a friend to check out the art.

"I'm amazed at the sheer number of kids that participate," she said. "So many freshmen have pieces on display, and their work is very impressive."

The students felt the support.

"It's good to bring the community into the school to see the art we created," said Paige Bruguier. "It's cool to see all the students and people that came out and that we included the choir and jazz band this year."

Bill MacDonald and Tony Cosby answered questions as curious people took a closer look at the luthier program's guitars and ukuleles on display. The first class for the luthier program's ukulele building class will begin in spring.

"People don't realize how much work it is to build one of these instruments," said MacDonald. "I had to build all the jigs and fixtures to build the first ukulele."

A silent auction was held throughout the evening. Contributing artists included Pam Jersey Bird, Ken Merrill, Tracy Curtis and Paul Alan Bennett. There were also baked goods and one-of-a-kind clothing from Bedouin. Student ceramics were for sale as well, ranging from mugs to plates and figurines.

Bethany Gunnarson, the new art teacher at the high school, enjoyed the evening and emceed as she introduced the choir and jazz bands.

"I was pleasantly surprised at the turnout, but I know how many students were actually involved in the night either by displaying artwork or performing, and that brings a lot of support in itself. We raised at least as much support as we have in the past, which will help benefit a visual-arts scholarship for seniors this year," said

Gunnarson.

Former art teacher Mike Baynes attended the event and donated a beautiful ceramic vase. Gunnarson, a former art student of Baynes', seemed perfectly at home among her students.

"A lot of people were surprised that I was not stressed out at the event, and my response was that apart from setting up, enjoying artwork, music, people, and good food this is what I love. It was so gratifying seeing community members sharing in our event."