Mount Wachusett Community College Hosts 40th Annual Regional Exhibition Of High School Art

Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) proudly celebrated the 40th Annual Regional Exhibition of High School Art, showcasing exceptional student work from eight area high schools. The long-standing exhibition continues to highlight the creativity, dedication, and artistic achievement of young artists across the region.

Held in MWCC’s East Wing Gallery, the exhibition featured a diverse collection of two- and three-dimensional works, including ceramics, painting, drawing, and mixed media. Participating schools included Athol High School, Contoocook Valley Regional High School, Fitchburg High School, Leominster High School, Quabbin Regional High School, Ralph C. Mahar Regional High School, Shepherd Hill Regional High School, and Wachusett Regional High School.

“This exhibition is one of our most popular and meaningful community events,” said Joyce Miller, Chair of the Art Department and Gallery Director at MWCC. “For 40 years, it has provided an opportunity to celebrate the work of high school students and recognize the dedication of their teachers, families, and supporters.”

The MWCC Art Department continues to expand its reach amid increased enrollment driven by free community college initiatives. The program offers both an Associate Degree in Art and a Liberal Arts and Sciences degree with an art concentration, along with internships, portfolio development courses, and active student engagement through exhibitions and the Art Club.

MWCC’s Art Degree programs maintain strong transfer success, with recent graduates accepted to institutions such as Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), UMass Amherst, Montserrat College of Art, Parsons School of Design, Pratt Institute, and others.

The department also plays an active role in the community through initiatives such as its Summer Art Program for Youth, now entering its 31st year, as well as free public exhibitions, gallery talks, and collaborations with Early College programs.

During the exhibition’s awards ceremony, ten students received cash awards for outstanding artistic achievement. Works were evaluated based on originality, technical skill, and creative expression.

2026 Award Winners:

• Aidan Marony, ConVal Regional High School — Wheel-thrown ceramic bottle
• Lucy Morris, ConVal Regional High School — Ceramic lidded vessel
• Erin Sargent, Leominster High School — Narrative watercolor illustration
• Brynn Dunphy, Quabbin Regional High School — Geometric assemblage wall piece
• Romelle Romey, Shepherd Hill Regional High School — Still life painting
• Alaiza Wijangco, Shepherd Hill Regional High School — Collage (grizzly bear and salmon)
• Julia Daly, Wachusett Regional High School — Carved ceramic vase
• Bianka Mazierkowski, Wachusett Regional High School — Portrait
• Dahlia Vargas, Wachusett Regional High School — Charcoal drawing
• Allison DeLeire, Wachusett Regional High School — Painting (girl in pink dress)

The MWCC Art Club also selected Alaiza Wijangco for its special Art Club Award.

MWCC extended its appreciation to Chrystal Voorheis, administrative assistant, and Kevin Oxford, gallery assistant and MWCC alumus, for their contributions to organizing and installing the exhibition.

“The quality of work in this year’s show was exceptional,” Miller added. “We are continually inspired by what students and educators accomplish, often with limited resources. We hope this experience encourages students to continue pursuing their artistic passions.”