"Mixed Media," by Southern High School student Timothy Reavis won first in its category. (Savin Joseph/Echo Staff Photographer)

One hundred and sixty-eight of “Durham’s Finest” were given the chance to have their artwork displayed in N.C. Central University’s art museum this month.In its 28th year, the annual “Durham’s Finest” exhibition features artistic creations by Kindergarten through 12 grade students from all 42 Durham Public Schools.

Each school was responsible for choosing four remarkable pieces of work to be presented for the contest.

This year, the Museum has already surpassed last year’s record by attracting more than 600 students, parents, and teachers.

The exhibit also has a new statistic to add to the archives. There have been a “record number of 8 principals,” says Art Museum Director Kenneth Rodgers.

The artwork on display this year includes the traditional ink on paper, pencil on paper, and drawings as well at two and three-dimensional pieces.

Mixed media works, watercolor, pastel, oils, and acrylic paintings are hung on the walls of the Museum displaying vibrant colors and futuristic designs. Rodgers says, “There has been more dimensional works this year.” This includes a set of straw baskets that he has never seen presented before.

There was also an increase in ceramic and sculptures in paper machete and wire forms presented. “We’ve had some really unique collages that demonstrated amazing design,” says Rodgers.

“Durham’s Finest” never has a theme because each teacher has their own agenda of what they teach in their classes.

Social Work sophomore Desmond Carter attended the program for his art class. He saw a painting that stood out to him right away. “I saw a creative black and white drawing where a guy was holding his breath under water and hiding from sharks. I really liked it,” says Carter. He also found the creations to be diverse and was impressed by some of the work done by younger

"Still life with Bottles", a Blue Ribbon winning painting by Creekside Elementary 3rd grader Leyonne Howell. (Photo: Savin Joseph/Echo Staff Photographer)

artist.

“I found the exhibit unique because there was work done by little kids and people my age,” says Carter. “It wasn’t just paintings, I saw sculptures and statues.” This creates diversity and helps each students work be as personal as possible. This exhibit shows the creativity in all the students in Durham’s Public School system and the community. Visually, they have highlighted an array of talent and originality.

The art program, which is in the public school system, allows young artist the chance to have their work showed to their peers as well as the community.

The Museum Board of Directors awarded Blue Ribbons to three winners from each school level. These students will have the opportunity to have their work sold in the art gallery. Timothy Reavis, a 12th grader at Southern High School was given a blue ribbon and a “certificate of appreciation”.

“My art teacher said a couple people want to buy my stuff, but that’s all i’ve heard,” says Reavis.

His artwork was titled “Mixed Media”.