More than 200 students from across the Interlake School Division’s Hutterian schools gathered April 30 to celebrate creativity, learning and community at a student art exhibition showcasing work from all eight schools.
Students learned how to create owls and other animal figures
The exhibition featured artwork from kindergarten through Grade 12, highlighting a wide range of artistic styles and mediums and offering a glimpse into the creativity and talent found across the division’s Hutterian communities.
“Our schools are truly special, and it was essential for our community to come together to create a meaningful art show,” said Hutterian schools administrator Helen Ladyka. “The creativity found in each school is abundant, making it a wonderful opportunity to unite and showcase our talents.”
Displays filled the exhibition space with colour and imagination, as students had the opportunity not only to view their own work but also to explore pieces created by their peers. According to Ladyka, that experience stood out as one of the most impactful aspects of the day.
“The students’ excitement for exploring their own artwork and choosing other favourite pieces was genuinely inspiring,” she said. “They selected the art mediums they wanted to recreate at school.”
Students took pride in seeing their work featured throughout the exhibition, reinforcing the value of creative expression within the classroom and beyond.
“It was exciting to watch the students light up as they explored the displays and shared their work with others,” Ladyka said.
A highlight of the event was a hands-on plasticine sculpting activity led by Arborg artist Jerry Maryniuk. Students rotated through short, interactive sessions where they learned how to sculpt an owl before creating their own animals using plasticine.
“When we decided to host the art show, I felt it was essential for the students to engage in an art lesson simultaneously,” Ladyka said. “We began searching for someone who could not only display their art and creativity but also guide the students in creating their own pieces.”
With limited time available — approximately 30 minutes per class — organizers carefully planned the sessions to ensure students could both learn and create.
“I was drawn to the idea of incorporating three-dimensional art,” she said. “That’s when we came across Jerry’s name. After a bit of discussion, he kindly agreed to lead mini-lessons for our students.”
In addition to demonstrating sculpting techniques, Maryniuk shared his personal journey as an artist, offering students insight into creative pathways and careers.
Educators say events like the exhibition underscore the importance of arts programming within schools. Research has shown that participation in the arts can support academic success, enhance critical thinking and memory, and contribute to students’ emotional and social development. Art activities can also build confidence, strengthen fine motor skills and increase engagement — all factors linked to improved attendance and higher school completion rates.
Within the Hutterian school system, art is seen as an important complement to academic programming.
“Our comprehensive school plan embraces all eight schools, highlighting our strong focus on academics while also celebrating the incredible creativity present in our communities,” Ladyka said. “We are excited to make art accessible to everyone, ensuring that each student’s unique talents not only shine but also inspire those around them.”
The exhibition also aligned with broader divisional priorities focused on accessibility, equality and responsiveness.
“Every student took an active role, which underscores our dedication to these values,” Ladyka said. “When students present their work and others show genuine interest in their creations, it fosters an environment rich in engagement and participation.”
That sense of shared experience helped strengthen both confidence and connection among students.
“This high level of involvement not only celebrates student achievements but also significantly boosts their confidence,” she said.
Beyond the educational benefits, the exhibition provided a space for students to express themselves and connect with others through creativity, reinforcing a strong sense of community among the participating schools.
Organizers described the event as both a celebration of student achievement and a meaningful opportunity to bring together students from across the division in a shared creative experience.
Following the success of this year’s exhibition, there is hope the event will continue to grow.
“Everyone had a great time participating in the art show, and we’re hopeful that it will become a regular event every two to three years,” Ladyka said.
The exhibition ultimately highlighted not only the artistic abilities of students but also the strength of collaboration and community within the Hutterian schools — where creativity continues to play an important role in student development.
