On June 15th, 2015, 6 fearless travelers joined OHHS Art Teacher Jamie Schorsch on a 9 day excursion to Peru to explore the landscape and give back to the community.  Currents students Devon Hanavan (’17), Sydney Martinez (’16), and Amanda Brandner (’16) joined alumni Jackie Switzer (’14) and Michelle Luken (’11) alongside parent Laura Luken on an adventure that took the group through Lima, Cusco, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu before completed a service project with Awamaki in Ramira.  The travelers were challenged by climbing and hiking at altitudes up to 11,000 feet, mixed concrete by hand to lay the floor for  the Ramira women’s knitting center, and constructed walls for the center.  The group also explored local archaeological sites, museums, and landmarks while exploring local cuisine and interacting with the people of Peru.  Everyone involved agreed that this was an opportunity of a lifetime that changed us all, for the better, forever.  Below are some of the highlights from the trip and service that were conducted through EF Tours.

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This year’s Studio Art AP students were charged with the task of beautifying our massive, concrete, flagpole base at the front of Oak Hills High School; the goal, to represent our partnership with the Asia Society as an ISSN (International Studies School Network) school.  After collaborating and brainstorming, students decided to select an artwork from one of the countries of our sister schools to place on top of the base and render the correlating flag on the side of the base.  After 4 short weeks following the Studio Art AP Portfolio Submission, interrupted by almost daily rain showers, the students were completed the work which represents a commitment and reverence for the role of art is society and global studies.

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On June 11th, 2015, OHHS Art student Rylan Hixson (’15) was recognized at the 2015 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City for his piece “Cross Section” which earned him  American Visions Medalist status earlier this year.  Rylan’s piece will be touring America and displayed in various venues over the course of the next year. Congratulations to Rylan for his achievement and amazing opportunity to be added to the ranks of so many talented individuals that have been recognized through the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards program since 1923.

Mr. Groh is excited to announce that the 14th Biannual Student Photography Show will be opening at Aroma’s Java and Gelato this Friday at 7pm. Come join them for live music, great photography, and the camaraderie of young artists. The work primarily showcases Photo II students, but it will also feature work from Digital Photo and a few from Photo I. All the work will be for sale and 100% of the proceeds go directly to the artist.

Come show your support! The party usually goes well past 9pm.