The Austin High School media center was buzzing with activity Wednesday morning as students converged upon the second semester art show.

Teachers from all departments were invited to accompany their students to partake in what is now a 24-year tradition of celebrating great student art.

Drawings, paintings, photographs, and sculptures were displayed in a show that included 33 categories with over 200 artists participating. The art show not only showcases some of the best art created during the semester, it also gives students a platform for a bit of friendly competition.

Teachers, students, friends, and family may cast their votes in an on-line ballot for the Student Choice award. Best of Show and Award of Excellence are selected as well. First and second semester winners compete for Magnus Opus.  All award winners are celebrated during the Art Assembly that takes place at the end of the school year.

Austin High School has a rich history of honoring the arts, as is demonstrated in the course offerings provided to students at all grade levels.

All art courses are offered at a level 1, level 2, and as an independent study, so students may pursue their passions throughout their high school careers.

When asked about her independent study class, Jaiden Schuster, a senior said, “It gives me a chance to work more independently and helps me find a way to express myself.”

Students take art classes for a variety of reasons. “Having fun drawing and hands-on,” said John Dolph, while Aaiyah Bennett and McKenna Peterson agree that it is in art classes that they are free to express their creativity.

“It gives me more liberty to work at my own pace,” said Tyler Quitmeyer, a future doctor who says he dabbles in different media. “I can work more quickly or slowly as needed.”

Teachers and students agree that Austin High School is a great place to create, compete and be honored as current and future artists.