Battle Ground Public Schools

61st annual BGPS District Art Show goes virtual

May 26, 2020

More than 500 creative works are on virtual display to celebrate Battle Ground Public Schools’ annual District Art Show. The event, in its 61st year, is posted by category in slideshows on the district website.

The art show celebrates the work of student artists from every grade level. Pieces on virtual display include 3D sculptures, ceramics, drawings, digital art, photography and paintings. The event was founded in 1959 by the late Bob Peck, who taught art classes and shaped the art program at Battle Ground High School for more than 37 years before he retired. He collaborated with Battle Ground city librarian Frances Rieck to share students’ artistic talents with the community.

The District Art Show has morphed and grown over the years and is still a favorite event for students, parents, teachers, and community members alike. This year, due to the public health crisis and school building closures, Battle Ground Public Schools is presenting the art show in a virtual format. Pieces will not be judged this year, but participants will receive a Certificate of Participation. The district also added a Remote Learning category to showcase student artwork that has been completed at home since school buildings closed.

Allison Tuchardt, Peck’s daughter and a Battle Ground Public Schools Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, is excited to be able to share students’ creative works in a virtual format and see her father’s legacy continue. She collaborated with the district’s art teachers and communications department to develop the virtual format. “It’s important that we continue this tradition, even in this challenging environment,” Tuchardt said. “Not only are we honoring the creative talents of our students, but we are also demonstrating to them that we can persevere in spite of obstacles.”

The public is invited to view students’ art on the district website.