The Student Jury Show 2011

Art Ink held an art exhibition and contest to highlight the artwork of Texas A&M International University students at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Building on Thursday, December 1, 2011.

As the art community grows, the exhibition gets bigger every semester. "This is one of the biggest turnout we've had in any student exhibition", says Teresita De la Torre.

Before awarding the winners of the show, Rebecca Leza read a letter out loud from the juror, Janet Kueger, commending the students for their hard work and dedication to the arts. "I am encouraged to see that TAMIU's Visual Arts Program continues to thrive and expand the opportunities for personal expression. I am more excited to find an emerging element of social commentary in work", read Leza.

De la Torre went on to announce the first, second, third place, and Best of Show winners starting with the third place winner. Third place went to Gabriela Sanchez. The second place winner is Ricardo Guerrero III. The first place winner is Santos Polendo. Finally, the Best of Show went to Michael Flores.

Poledo's self portrait got him first place in the showcase for his traditional blend of shades and colors . Flores won overall the Best of Show for a portrait he drew of his grandmother and mother lounging while watching television. Flores is particularly proud of the moment he drew his grandmother and mother, because he felt several people could relate to his portrait. "After winning, two women commented on my portrait saying that it was them, so for me that was self-fulfilling", stated Flores.

(For more information, please contact Elisa Zubeldia at eazubeldia@dusty.tamiu.edu or Tanya Polendo at Tanya_guzman@dusty.tamiu.edu.)