Students’ art celebrated at Mercer Island Community and Event Center

By Theresa Zwingman

Special to the Reporter

Mercer Island Visual Arts League (MIVAL) is proud to host its 50th Annual Junior Art Show for students in grades K-12. Previously a highlight of the Summer Celebration, this cherished event is now showcased at the Mercer Island Gallery in the Mercer Island Community and Event Center, running until Aug. 16. Also featured are winners of the 2024 MIVAL High School Scholarship Awards: Ashley Iwasaki, Joyci Li, Niko Ulshin, Karen Zhang, Minh Luu and Bryce Martin.

This summer, more than 30 young artists have submitted their works, competing for cash prizes and the honor of displaying their creations in the gallery. The show features a diverse array of 2D and 3D artworks, utilizing materials ranging from pipe cleaners to oil paints.

This year’s exhibit is generously sponsored by Mathnasium, with additional support from Sahara Pizza and individual donors, who have contributed both cash and gift prizes for the winners.

MIVAL, a community arts organization established 63 years ago, supports both young and adult artists through various programs, including shows, scholarships, classes and community events. Children are invited to join MIVAL volunteers for art-making activities at Summer Celebration and Mostly Music in the Park events throughout the summer.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mathnasium, Sahara Pizza and John L. Scott Real Estate for their enthusiastic support of our young artists. Special thanks are also due to the Whitaker Family, June Lindsey for special awards, and Linda Jack for honoring Jean Jack, a passionate teacher and watercolor artist.

This year, we are excited to introduce two new awards: the Joan and Leonard Lucia Art Inspiration Awards. Funded by the Lucia family, these awards will honor outstanding young artists with generous gift certificates to local art stores.

We are also proud to present the Ewan Lill Art Award, named after a brave and talented young boy, Ewan Lill. An athlete, student, artist and cherished friend, Ewan inspired everyone around him during his vibrant 8 years. This award celebrates young artists who transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, inspiring and impacting all who experience their work.

We would like to thank the MIVAL Gallery, its volunteers, and members, including Theresa Zwingman, Nancy Abel, Zeynep Banu Alev, Jim Carlson, Ken Claflin, Lorri Falterman, Susanne Foster, Anne Hritzay, June Lindsey, Thoa Nguyen, Judith Roan, Carol Whitaker, Renee Zhang and all program volunteers, for their dedication and hard work.