Northern Lights Gallery in Racine, Wis., hosts the second annual Carthage Student Art Show through April 30. "Shades of Self Expression" will feature work by five Carthage students. An opening reception was held Saturday, April 16.

Masked Color by Katherine Ramirez, '11

Students featured in the show are Griffin Youngstrum, '12, from Ottawa, Ill.; Katherine Ramirez, '11, from Darien, Ill.; Sarah Starling, '11, from Lake in the Hills, Ill.; Veronica Allen, '11, from Wheeling, Ill.; and Nick Tackes, '13, from Rockford, Ill.

Katherine submitted artwork that was part of her senior thesis work. "The theme is how conflict is shown through color and how conflict effects people in different ways," she said. "I incorporate my own photography into the pieces by using models I have photographed."

Other students focused on abstract art. "I like to paint abstract because it gives the viewer complete control in interpreting the piece," Veronica said. "The painting turns into whatever you want it to be."

Georgia Garcia, '12, from Arlington Heights, Ill., and Ryann Ward, '11, from Loves Park, Ill., were the student organizers for the exhibit. "I think we are both looking forward to seeing how the students and public interact," said Ryann. "This is about the artists and the viewer. It will just be a really great experience for everyone involved."

Chet Griffith of Art Works in Kenosha will once again jury the show. Best of Show, People's Choice and Judges Choice awards will be given.

The reception is free and open to the public. Northern Lights Gallery is located at 423 Main St., Racine.

— Kasey Dallman, '14
Portions of this article originally appeared in The Current.