The 33rd Annual Blackwell Street Juried Student Exhibit is now on display at the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown, bringing together the creative energy of high school artists from across Morris County. The exhibit, which has become one of the county’s most anticipated cultural events, is an impressive showcase of the artistic talents of students from diverse backgrounds, ranging from public and private schools to home-schooling programs.
Celebrating Young Artists: The Evolution of the Blackwell Street Exhibit
The Blackwell Street Juried Student Exhibit has come a long way since its inception in 1988. Initially launched with just 90 pieces of student artwork, it has grown into an annual celebration of youth creativity, with this year’s display featuring 280 works selected from over 750 submissions. The artwork spans a wide variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and more, showcasing the dynamic skill sets of the county’s up-and-coming artists.
One of the unique aspects of this exhibit is its inclusive format. The exhibit is open to all high school students in Morris County, regardless of whether they attend public, private, parochial, or are home-schooled. This broad inclusivity makes the show a truly democratic celebration of artistic expression, giving every young artist an opportunity to have their work recognized and appreciated.
However, the exhibit did take a five-year hiatus before returning in 2023, a gap that has only heightened the excitement surrounding its revival. The exhibit’s return has been warmly embraced by the community, providing an invaluable platform for students to display their work and gain exposure in a professional setting.
From Boonton to Villa Walsh: A Diverse Range of Artistic Voices
The 2023 exhibit showcases the work of students from a wide range of schools, including:
- Boonton
- Butler
- Chatham
- Delbarton
- Dover
- Hanover Park
- Jefferson Township
- Madison
- Montville Township
- Morris Hills
- Mount Olive
- Mountain Lakes
- Parsippany
- Parsippany Hills
- Randolph
- Roxbury
- West Morris Mendham
- Villa Walsh Academy
This diverse representation not only speaks to the rich talent spread across the region, but also highlights the shared commitment of local schools to fostering creativity in their students.
Each year, submissions are carefully reviewed by a panel of professional artists who serve as jurors for the exhibit. This year’s jurors, Dave Gruol and Peggy Dressel from the Blackwell Street Center for the Arts, have once again ensured that only the best student work makes it into the exhibit. Their expertise and discerning eye help ensure that the exhibit remains a high-quality, professional-level showcase of young talent.
An Evening of Celebration: The Opening Reception
The exhibit kicked off with an opening reception held on April 3, which drew a large crowd of enthusiastic visitors, including students, families, educators, and members of the local community. The Atrium Gallery at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, which is managed by Morris Arts, was buzzing with excitement as attendees had the opportunity to meet the artists and see their work up close.
The reception offered a chance to celebrate not only the students’ creative achievements but also the ongoing support of local arts organizations like Morris Arts, which plays a key role in providing a platform for these young artists to gain visibility. It’s events like this that continue to nurture a vibrant arts culture in Morris County, helping the next generation of artists build confidence, expand their skills, and find a supportive community.
Exhibit Details: A Chance to See the Art in Person
The Blackwell Street Juried Student Exhibit is on display in the Atrium Gallery on the second through fifth floors of the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown. The exhibit will remain open to the public through April 29, 2025, giving ample opportunity for art lovers, students, and community members to view the diverse collection of work.
Visitor Hours
The exhibit is free and open to the public during the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday: Extended hours until 7:30 p.m.
- Thursday: Extended hours until 7:00 p.m.
Note: The building is closed on weekends.
A Platform for Young Artists to Shine
The Blackwell Street Juried Student Exhibit serves as a critical stepping stone for young artists, offering them an opportunity to have their work seen by a broader audience and providing them with recognition for their talent and dedication. This exhibition not only serves as an outlet for personal expression but also highlights the growing importance of the arts in our local schools and communities.
By participating in such an event, students are able to see their hard work come to life in a professional gallery setting, offering them valuable experience that could play a significant role in their artistic development.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a supporter of the local community, or simply someone looking to experience the creative spirit of Morris County’s youth, this exhibit is a must-see. It’s a powerful reminder of the transformative power of the arts and the incredible potential of the next generation of artists in New Jersey.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Morris County’s Next Generation of Artists
The Blackwell Street Juried Student Exhibit is more than just an art show—it’s a celebration of the incredible talent of Morris County’s high school students. As the exhibit continues to grow, it not only honors the creativity of young people but also encourages them to pursue their artistic passions in the future. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to visit, there’s still plenty of time to view the exhibit and witness the next wave of artistic talent rising from Morris County.
Visit the exhibit at the Morris County Administration and Records Building today and support the young artists shaping the future of New Jersey’s vibrant arts scene!
