SPOKANE, Wash. — A ‘Unified Art’ exhibit featuring work from Shadle Park High School’s special education and general education students is now on display at the Northwest Museum of Art and Culture (MAC).
This is the first time the MAC has hosted an this show, bridging these student communities.
“For a lot of students in the program, they took struggles, but yet they took the time to make all this beautiful art,” said Curtis Tabert, a student in Shadle Park’s special education program.
Miles Gibson, a junior at Shadle, noted the typical division between student groups. “I see a lot of these kids all around the school, and it really is unfortunately, like two different communities just because we don’t have a lot of classes together.”
Art teacher Carri Stroud started the project three months ago with a simple approach. “All it took was some art parties that we would throw together on Thursdays, some loud music, and kids would just make art, shoulder to shoulder.”
For Gibson, the project provided unexpected friendships and new perspectives. “I just think these kids are capable of a lot more than people think they are. And it’s just really cool to see how hard they work.”
During the exhibit opening, students admired their displayed work and created new pieces together.
Tabert’s message emphasizes possibility: “Make sure their mind is set on what they can do and what they can imagine.”
Gibson highlighted the common ground between all students: “At the end of the day, we are just, you know, students. We’re all high school students. We’re all here to learn, have fun.”
Visitors can view the exhibit at the Northwest Museum of Art and Culture through the end of the month.
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