Classes are held at Fort Christian, pictured above.

StJohnGallery.com and Alexander’s Café Present:
“Inspirational Young Artists”
Artwork from the Students of the School of Visual Arts and Careers, Ft. Christian
Opening Reception Friday, September 6th, from 5-7pm.

“I am really excited about this show. I have been aware of The School of Visual Arts and Careers at Fort Christian, but I had no idea of the time and dedication required from students of this after-school program. I reviewed the work with instructor Edie P. Johnson and was so taken by the display of focused young talent! As we were looking over the artwork, Edie expressed, ‘I tell them that they are already artists. All I’m doing here is showing them how to develop their talents.’ This exhibit will be a fine example of just that.

Tachelle Newton "First Spring II" linoleum print - $20

The non-profit SVAC was established in 1983 and obtains most of its monies from grants, both local and federal. Director Phebe Schwartz told me that SVAC has received grant monies from the Law Enforcement Planning Commission (LEPC), Virgin Islands Council on the Arts (VICA), and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The NEA grant received last year really validated the Program as the NEA requirements are so stringent. Unfortunately, the NEA changed their program funding and the opportunity is not there for SVAC this year. This is an opportunity for private donors to make up the difference! This is a proven, effective after-school program in our community, let’s support it! Contact me (643.6363) if you would like more information on the program and how you may contribute.

Ashton Frett "Plumeria Frangipani" gouache painting - $55

As important as fundraising is, let’s not forget to raise the spirits of the students! Come meet the Artists! The show opens Friday, September 6, from 5-7 pm and continues through October 10. We will give thanks for good programs and again for these fine young artists (and their families.) Their artwork will be available for sale. The exhibit features artwork representing a variety of mediums including linoleum prints, gouache, watercolor, cut-paper collage, photography and acrylic paintings. The pieces are all reasonably priced and this is an excellent opportunity to collect original work.”

See you there!
All the best,
Claire

The non-profit School of Visual Arts and Careers was established in 1983 and has been graduating and supporting local talent. Director Phebe Schwartz, Instructor Edie P. Johnson, and Featured Instructor Dale

Carolina de Lyrot "Reality" cut paper collage - $125

Hendricks are inspired by the dedication, determination and creative expression of their eight students: Tony Bongiovi, Dwayne Felix, Ashton Frett, Maireni de Jesus, Carolina de Lyrot, Tachelle Newton, Willy Payne, and Solomon Webson.

Talent and interest are just two of the requirements to be in the program. To qualify for the program, students must have taken, or be currently enrolled in a high school art class and present a portfolio of six pieces. The program likes to recruit students in September, but applications are accepted year-round. SVAC holds their classes Tuesday through Thursday from 3:30 to 5:30. Their summer schedule is Mon through Thursday 10:00 to 1:00. You can imagine the discipline and level of interest in art the students must have to keep up with the program. In fact, most students pursue higher degrees in art upon graduation from SVAC. Denise Humphrey, with the Reichhold Center, is a SVAC and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point graduate that returned to the Virgin Islands to share her artistic skills.