By Crystal Hayduk
Photo Slide Show by Rowan Anderson.
(Publisher’s note: Anderson is a senior at CHS, who will be attending the Penny W. Stamps School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan this fall. In addition, Trilian Krug’s name was spelled incorrectly in this story and it has been corrected. We apologize for the error.)
People showed up at the Chelsea High School gym from 5-7 p.m. on May 10, but it wasn’t for an athletic event.
It was the opening reception for the high school’s second annual Celebration of the Arts. In the place of competitors, an art exhibition. Instead of the squeak of gym shoes and cheering spectators, music filled the room.
Art teachers Claire Popovich and Carrie Hillis were all smiles as they chatted with students, families, and alumni. “We combined art and music for this show because the two co-exist and are accessible to all students,” said Popovich. “We have beautiful programs here at CHS, and our students often are involved in both art and music.
“It’s great to see art and music come together in a loving way and with great support from district administration,” she said.
Many types of art created by CHS students were on display: paintings, drawings, prints, photography, graphic arts, mixed media, ceramics, and jewelry.
CHS senior Trilian Krug (percussion) and Dexter High School senior Sam Gibson (guitar), members of the recently formed duo Fox & Hare, opened the evening with their original music.
The event included back-to-back performances by the newly revived Co. C, directed by Ken Davis; Chelsea House Orchestra, directed by Phillip Sylvester; and the jazz band, directed by Jenna Kezelian, the long-term substitute covering for Alison Roberts, band director.
Independence Hall students and staff made appetizing savory and sweet snacks and punch to complement the art and music, making it a multisensory experience for attendees.
Popovich said the art show was made possible through a Chelsea Education Foundation grant in 2022-23 to purchase the display panels.
Parent Megan Angus said, “I see these kids doing sports, and then I come here and see this other aspect of their lives. There’s so much artistic and musical talent here.”
Popovich said she is proud of the students and is thrilled to see the community supporting music and art in the district.
