Gioia Guarino ’23

Features Section Editor

Ethan McGrath, a senior studio art major, was encouraged to apply to the 19th Annual ArtsWorcester College Show! ArtsWorcester prides itself in showcasing contemporary art in varying venues displaying artists around the city! Not only is Ethan a fantastic artist, but he is a prime participant in the Student Art Society club here on campus and was able to attend the event this past Friday to showcase his art and celebrate his prize. 

Ethan talked me through the application process and how he was familiarized with the event, which resumed in-person displays after two years of digital alternatives. He states, “through my senior studio art seminar, my professors encourage our class to apply to Artsworcester. We had taken a field trip to the gallery earlier in the fall and learned that Holy Cross students are automatically Artsworcester members — so all HC students can apply — this show’s focus was Worcester colleges.” The encouragement from faculty members at HC inspired Ethan to take part in a competition supporting artists all over the state! A great way to involve oneself and artwork in the community, the event allowed college students and residents of Massachusetts to collaborate with fellow artists. 

The reception occurred on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 6-9pm at the Davis Art Gallery, inviting all college students from around Massachusetts. Ethan explained how fun the event was and noted, “many professors and students went, and students can put their artwork up for sale to the Worcester community.” Alongside Ethan were other Holy Cross students participating in the competition, with 55 works selected in total from 170 applicants across the state. The option to sell their artwork is an excellent way for aspiring artists to receive recognition and a sale for their talent!

McGrath continues, “I enjoyed seeing Worcester college student art all in one place!” With Massachusetts home to many students, events like ArtWorcester allow students to support and marvel at their peers’ artwork of differing media! Ethan comments, “there was also a broad range of mediums used, including painting, drawing, ceramics, photography, digital videos, and many more.” The array of art pieces is one of my favorite parts of museums and exhibitions. Visualizing the different types of artwork and modes of talent is impressive, and this was also one of the highlights of Ethan’s night!

His beautiful work, Allegory of the Cave, received a juror award with compensation and is currently on sale and display until April 8, 2023! 

For more information about ArtsWorcester and the college showcase or to view the digital exhibit, check out their website https://artsworcester.org/current-upcoming-exhibitions/!