In what has become a D-E tradition, the Swartley Gallery Series is closing the school year with its Senior Spotlight exhibit, running through Monday, May 25, and celebrated with an artist reception this week. This showcase is “a chance for all Seniors’ work to be seen, even if they aren’t in the AP Art program,” said Ms. Diaz, Art & Design Department Chair. Featured artists are Emma Baumgarten ’26, Celia Binn ’26, Hudson Clune ’26, Mara Gualtieri-Horowitz ’26, Jack Meserole ’26, Jayden “Carlos” Moncion ’26, Isabella Moon ’26, Blasina Olowe ’26, Nisha Rajan ’26, and Amanda Santos ’26.
Nisha submitted a self-portrait as well as two abstract pieces, a new style for her, as part of the Advanced Topics Sustained Investigation program. One of Mara’s pieces was inspired by the cherubs in Raphael’s “Sistine Madonna” painting. “It’s a contemporary reimagining with me as the angel,” she said. Amanda showcased ceramics that she said were connected to her culture and family who currently live in the Dominican Republic. They included a muñeca, or doll, adorned in green, because her family collects dolls; a pot decorated with angels (a nod to her last name, which means “saints”); and a tile that represents “a view in the D.R. I’ve basically seen since I was born.”
Meanwhile, Jack submitted a selection of photographs, many of which were taken during the D-E 360° Balkans trip in the summer. One photo titled, “No Place for a Child,” depicted a famous figure of a child on a swing juxtaposed with a war-torn scene. “This was impactful for me because it shows spiritual, emotional movement,” said Jack, who added that he was able to empathize with the teenagers of the past for whom this was everyday life. Thanks to all the Seniors who shared their impressive work with the D-E community!
