A talented group of Spartan artists recently had their works on display at Richmond’s Gayton Kirk. 

The exhibit came about after Robin Ricketts, a former Steward teacher who organizes monthly art shows at Gayton Kirk, contacted Upper School Visual Arts Teacher Kristin Snellings to ask if her Advanced Placement students would exhibit their drawings and paintings at the church. 

Engaging students on a deeply individual level is a vital way that Steward supports the development of each student’s sense of self. A reception at Gayton Kirk on March 20 was a great way for the student artists to fully experience the depth of artistic expression and discuss the inspiration behind their works.

Max Magrill ’24 submitted several pieces, including “My Perspective,” a graphite drawing based on his vantage point of an empty art classroom. 

“I used a five-point perspective [which uses five points to create a circle] to create a fisheye effect and capture the entirety of the classroom,” said the artist. “I was inspired by a piece by M.C. Escher called ‘Hand with Reflecting Sphere,’  which gave me the idea of using the fisheye effect in my piece.” Max added, “One of my favorite parts of being in AP art class with Ms. Snellings has been the constructive environment she has established. Whether I need help with ideas or feedback on my artwork, the classroom experience is always supportive.” 

The reception, said Ms. Snellings, “was a lovely opportunity for families to see their students’ work. This gave students a professional artist experience. They had to prepare the work, create titles, meet deadlines, set up the exhibit, and chat with visitors. It was nice to reflect on finished work before students finish up their full AP portfolio, which is due in several weeks.”  

Congratulations to the following Class of 2024 students, whose artistic flair makes the Steward community proud: Avery Bates, Caitlin Calkins, Grace Virginia Deal, Emma Herzog, Ana Reveles Leon, Max Magrill, Gideon Grandis-McConnell, Kate Reed, Jackson Rhamy, Kay Saket, Henley Voeks, and Naomi Young.