Emerging Artists

The Ohio Art Education Association (OAEA) recently announced that five Midview High School students will feature in its annual Emerging Artists Exhibition. Artwork created during the 2021-22 school year by Riley Willard (grade 12), Sesen Keith (grade 11), Isabella Griffiths (grade 10), Jackie Janus (grade 10) and Avah Perry (grade 10) is on display at The King Arts Complex (835 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43203) through Oct. 29.  

“Helping students develop into artists, critical thinkers, decision-makers and creators is such a rewarding experience, especially when organizations like OAEA take note of their accomplishments,” said MHS Visual Arts Teacher Heather Burns. “Having artwork displayed in the Emerging Artist Exhibition is a true testament to each student’s creativity, talent and hard work.”

As a professional organization of more than 2,000 art teachers in Ohio, OAEA promotes art education through several professional endeavors, including sponsoring various student art exhibits at state and regional levels. 

The Emerging Artists Exhibition is designed to motivate and inspire new artists to excel in areas of drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, computer art, photography and printing. This year, 195 pieces of art were selected from eight regions in the state for the juried show. 

“On behalf of the Midview Local Schools community, I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to this talented group of students,” said MHS Principal Brian Siftar. “Their creativity and dedication to their craft are truly inspiring. We are fortunate to have such wonderful art teachers who strive to develop programming that addresses the social-emotional, creative and academic needs of all students.”

OAEA will recognize featured students and their respective art teachers at a celebratory reception on Oct. 29.

Isabella Griffiths

Jackie Janus 


Sesen Keith


Avah Perry


Riley Willard