High school student juried exhibition begins Feb. 9 at Robert Hillestad Gallery

06 Feb 2024    

The Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery in the Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design is set to host an exhibition featuring textile art and design projects of 22 Nebraska high school students beginning Feb. 9.

The exhibition aims to both promote and celebrate the innovative contributions of the emerging artists, designers and makers who are committed to working with recycled textile or fiber materials and techniques.

Anna Erdmann, gallery manager and TMFD alumna (M.A. Material Culture, 2021), provided schools and teachers with a comprehensive lesson plan and curriculum titled, “Upcycled: Exploring Textiles & Art.” The curriculum focuses on the integration of upcycling in fashion design and art. Shawn Stokes and Michelle Clifford, both teachers in Lincoln Public Schools, utilized the curriculum in their classrooms, enhancing the professional development experience for both educators and students.

Students submitted projects to be judged on criteria including creativity, originality, craft, innovation, and adherence to the upcycling theme. Students with the top three projects will receive cash prizes.

The “Upcycling” exhibition will be on display at the Hillestad Gallery through March 29. The Robert Hillestad Gallery is located on the second floor of the Gwendolyn Newkirk Human Sciences Building on East Campus. The gallery is open to the public 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.