The 2025 Annual Juried Student Art & Design Exhibition

April 24 - May 17

Reception: Thursday, April 24, 6 - 8 p.m.

The Annual Juried Student Art and Design Exhibition at Bristol Community College is more than just a showcase—it’s an educational experience that exemplifies the college’s commitment to teaching, mentorship, and professional practice in the visual arts. This anticipated spring tradition celebrates the creative accomplishments of students across a variety of media while highlighting the collaborative efforts that help bring their work to public view.

Each year, students in the Art and Design program are invited to submit their work for consideration by a panel of jurors. The competitive nature of this process mirrors real-world opportunities, giving students valuable experience in preparing their work for professional review. The selected pieces reflect the strength, depth, and diversity of Bristol’s student talent and serve as a testament to the high level of instruction and critical inquiry happening in the classroom.

The exhibition is also the result of an ongoing, deeply collaborative effort between Art and Design faculty and the Grimshaw-Gudewicz Art Gallery staff. In the weeks leading up to the show, students receive hands-on guidance from both instructors and gallery professionals in areas such as framing, presentation, writing artist statements, and the mechanics of art installation. The gallery team has developed a series of practical teaching tools and tutorials to support this learning process, helping students understand the many behind-the-scenes aspects of professional exhibitions —from proper handling and labeling to spatial planning and lighting.

This holistic approach not only enhances student learning but prepares emerging artists for the expectations and best practices of the wider art world. Through the experience of participating in this exhibition, students begin to see themselves as professionals. They engage in meaningful conversations about their work, interact with audiences during receptions and events, and come to appreciate the role of context, presentation, and collaboration in the success of an artwork.

Being selected for a juried show is also a significant source of motivation and affirmation, encouraging students to continue pursuing their artistic paths. For those considering transfer to four-year programs, graduate study, or entering the workforce, the exhibition is a meaningful milestone that can strengthen portfolios and resumes.

Please join us in celebrating the outstanding efforts and creative voices of our student artists at the 2025 Annual Juried Student Art and Design Exhibition. The opening reception will take place on Thursday, April 24 from 6 to 8 p.m., and the exhibition will remain on view through graduation on May 17. The gallery is free and open to the public.