OCC Art Students’ Juried Art Exhibition and Awards

This spring, Pontiac Creative Arts Center  is showcasing  OCC student art from April 14 through May 20. All art on display – including drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics and design – was created by students for OCC’s annual Student Art Exhibition. 

Student Art Exhibit

Organized by art faculty to highlight their students’ impressive artwork, the juried, multidisciplinary exhibition is the College's second of its kind. Current OCC students were eligible to submit their work, which must have been created in an OCC art class within the past year.  

"This event is a beautiful example of OCC’s commitment to the arts. Our student exhibition in Pontiac complements our partnership with the DIA’s InsideOut program, where art can be experienced within our community,” said OCC Chancellor Peter Provenzano. “Thank you to event organizer Lindsey Dezman and all of the art faculty who work hard each day as they teach, nurture and provide opportunities for our students and community." 

At the exhibition opening, 11 OCC student artists received additional recognition and cash prizes for their work with several awards granted. Prize funding was generously provided by The Kegham Tazian Art Prize Fund, DeRoy Testamentary Foundation and OCC’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice. 

 Best of Show and notable honors included: 

  • Liam McDonald, Best in Show 
  • Hall Winter, DEIJ Social Justice  
  • Mary Prybys, Honorable Mention  
  • Brendon Stretten, Provost Award  
  • Elizabeth Merdian, Best of Ceramics 
  • Taimur Akbar, Best of Design
  • Marie Garcia, Best of Drawing 
  • Taylor Nevils, Best of Jewelry
  • Troy Forner, Best of Photography
  • Lydia Martin, Best of Painting
  • Carol Socks-Parker, Best of Sculpture 

According to opening reception attendees, faculty efforts to organize the art exhibition, combined with students’ demonstrable talent, culminated in an exciting event for all. For exhibit hours and events, contact the Pontiac Creative Art Center.  

About OCC    

Oakland Community College offers nearly 100 degrees and certificates programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling with face-to-face and online options. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training with expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at  oaklandcc.edu.   

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