The Orange County Arts Council will host its annual “Arts Build Confidence” student arts showcase on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Middletown Galleria Mall at Crystal Run from 10:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m. Visual arts will be displayed throughout the day and a sampling of high school performing arts will take place in center court (near JCPenney) from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. The day will also offer arts career exploration opportunities with arts organizations and companies present for questions and information. The event will conclude with a people’s choice award ceremony including a display of student fashion art. Admission is free.
Last year’s event gathered 32 schools across Orange County and saw more than 4,500 visitors engaging with the students’ art.
High schools from across Orange County will display their students’ artwork on panels set up in the mall’s center atrium. These works include oils, watercolors, mixed media, digital art, photography, and short literary works. Visitors to the show will be invited to participate in a free “People’s Choice” voting to select a favorite work. Those pieces receiving the top three votes will be recognized for this achievement at 3:00 p.m.
Student artwork from Orange County elementary and middle schools (Grades K-8) will be on display in a digital slideshow throughout the day. Large screen video monitors will present the works near the staircase in the center court, adjacent to the high school pieces.
“Arts Build Confidence is one of my favorite moments of the year,” says Todd Hulet, Orange County Arts Council’s Executive Director. “The talent of our students is remarkable and the opportunity for these students to come together makes the day memorable for everyone in the community. ”
This year will also provide an opportunity for students and community to discuss career opportunities in the arts with tables for discussion and information hosted by arts organizations, local arts manufacturing businesses, and additional artist employers.
The Orange County NY Arts Council is a private, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to meeting the growing need for local arts advocacy and serving as a county-wide arts resource. A diverse Board of Directors made up of community leaders, business leaders, arts enthusiasts, and professional artists oversees the Orange County NY Arts Council. Many of OCNYAC programs are designed and implemented by volunteers serving on various committees.
TYA/USA’s programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, as well as the Orange County NY Supervisor and Legislature.
Orange County Arts Council supports and empowers artists, fosters diverse forms of expression and promotes access to the arts through educational programs, cultural events, public projects and participation that is integral to the economic development and collective well-being of our community. To learn more, visit: https://ocartscouncil.org/ or call 845-202-0140.