Teenagers around the area are experiencing it right now as they try to finish exams and projects before summer break begins.
It’s pressure, and you can either work with it, or against it.
“Creating is a great way to relieve some pressure and a little pressure is a great way to challenge yourself to meet a deadline or a high expectation,” said Ryan Robson, an artist and instructor who is part of The Hub Arts Collective.
With that in mind, The Hub recently called out to teens in the community and asked them what the feeling “under pressure” meant to them. The teens were asked to express their feelings through their artwork.
“Teens responded in many different ways, and it was so nice to see such a range of expressions,” said Robson. “There are topics from self image to religion, as well as abstract sculptures to bold statements about war, money, love and drugs.”
The resulting work is currently being shown at The Hub, and the June 9 opening saw awards given out to two of the participating artists.
The Hub Choice Award, which was chosen by members of the collective, was given to 17-year-old Emerald Holt for the two pieces she submitted.
“Her piece, Precious, is of a hand under pressure holding an egg. The hand tries to remain soft and supporting, but as pressure build, the egg is forced to crack,” said Robson.
During the opening, another artist, Kyrel Lutsenko, who is also 17, told the attendees that his work was inspired by Holt’s.
“Her bold colours and marks led to his work,” said Robson.
The second award, The People’s Choice, was chosen by everyone who came to the opening night.
Sharlene Ferguson, 17, and her five large works were chosen.
“Shar draws because she enjoys creating things she hasn’t seen before,” said Robson. “She is an intuitive artist and is not afraid to take risks and speak up about things that bother her. She works big and fast and her work demands attention.”
The public can still see the young artists’ works, which will be up for the month of June until July 2 at The Hub, located next to the Towne Theatre, downtown Vernon.
A donation jar is also located at the exhibition, and all the money will be going to put kids from Teen Junction through different classes and programs at The Hub.
