Several students from Leominster High School showcased their artwork at a local exhibit, marking a significant milestone for both the students and their teachers. The event took place on November 8 and 9, 2023, as part of the fall show organized by the Sterling Arts Collaborative at the historic 1835 Town Hall in downtown Sterling.
Art teacher Shelly Saben, who heads the art department, submitted one of her own paintings alongside works from her students, making this the first time LHS participated in an exhibit with SAC. Saben’s colleague, Linnea Romhanyi, also contributed her artwork, enhancing the school’s representation at the event.
“It is inspiring to see the enthusiasm and pride the students have in their work,” Romhanyi noted. “Exhibiting alongside established artists gives them a sense of accomplishment and shows that art can be a lifelong pursuit, enriching lives beyond the classroom.”
The exhibit featured a wide range of artistic talent, with participants ranging from young children to an artist over 99 years old. The displayed pieces included photographs and paintings, showcasing the diverse creativity within the community.
Following the event, the Sterling Arts Collaborative highlighted the significance of the exhibit on social media, emphasizing the opportunity for attendees to engage with the artists. They encouraged the public to follow their Facebook page for updates on local talent and future shows.
Among the talented LHS students whose artwork was featured were juniors Lola Couture, Ivan Kaidalin, and Huynh Tran, along with seniors Sid Imbriani, Kenzie Moyen, Avin Ruiz, Erin Sargent, and Natalie Smith. Additionally, sophomore Sophie Lopez from the Leominster Center for Technical Education Innovation also had her work displayed.
Saben expressed her excitement about showcasing their artwork early in the school year. “Most exhibitions and competitions we usually enter take place in the spring,” she explained. “We look forward to collaborating with SAC in the future to further expose our students to local artistic opportunities.”
For Saben, the exhibit held personal significance beyond professional milestones. She had the honor of displaying her painting titled “Kids Boots” alongside a pastel drawing created by her mother, Joanne Fortin. “After 30 years of teaching and raising my children, I rediscovered my passion for art in my late 40s,” Saben shared. “My mother encouraged me to exhibit my work, even taking a painting off my wall to submit to the SAC fall show. I am grateful for her support.”
This event not only celebrated the artistic talents of Leominster’s youth but also reinforced the importance of community engagement and mentorship in the arts. As Saben reflects on her journey, she recognizes the value of sharing creativity and inspiration within the local community.
