This March, the creativity of Torrington Public School art students was celebrated at a K-12 Art Show. Opening on March 15, 2025, the event at Torrington’s Five Points Annex Gallery was organized by THS Art Teacher Emily Murphy. The exhibition featured a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, drawings, photography, and mixed media pieces, all crafted by talented students.
Among the artists highlighted was Senior Dylan Theeb, who contributed three pieces to the gallery: two drawings and one photograph. Theeb is in the process of selling one of the showcased drawings, marking an exciting milestone in his artistic journey.
“Having my work on display and being able to share my talent with more people is greatly appreciated,” said Theeb. “It’s special hearing people’s feedback, interpretations, and different reactions to my art.”
Organizer Murphy, who is also the THS Art Department Chair, emphasized the importance of such exhibitions. “We organized a K-12 Torrington Public Schools art show and rented the 5 Points Annex space for a two-week period. Each teacher from the district, about 12 of us, brought 10 to 20 pieces, representing students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. It’s really cool to walk through and see the whole range of ages and talents,” Murphy said.
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Senior Dylan Theeb was a featured artist.
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Students K-12 submitted original artwork to the gallery.
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Paint, sketch, ceramic, and digitial art was featured.
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The opening reception was well attended by community members.
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Students enjoyed being able to see work from around the district.
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Community members enjoying the Torrington Public Schools Art Show at Five Points Gallery
The annual art show provides a platform for students to showcase their artistic growth and gain exposure in the local art community. Faculty members, families, and community members attended the opening night, engaging in meaningful discussions about the pieces on display.
“We need opportunities where students and artists can display their work so that expression is celebrated and appreciated,” Murphy added. “It’s really special to see younger students looking at the work of their older schoolmates. A kindergartener seeing a senior’s painting or drawing can be incredibly inspiring.”
Junior Ashlee Gentry was another artist celebrated. For Gentry, this experience is just the beginning. “I am excited to be pursuing art after high school and would love to have more work on display in the future,” they shared.
The show also incorporated digital art, displayed on a monitor that cycled through various student works. The exhibition was open to the public for two hours each day when gallery sitters were available, ensuring accessibility for the community.
“It was really cool to see students come in and have people point at their work,” Murphy noted. “Seeing their talents on display and connecting Torrington High School, Torrington Public Schools, and all the schools to the broader Torrington Arts community was a fantastic opportunity.”
Murphy says that this type of community art show will continue, both at Five Points and potentially at other venues. She hopes, as well, to set up a gallery within the new Torrington High School building.
