College of Western Idaho (CWI) Studio Art students and faculty continued a community tradition at the 39th Annual Nampa Festival of the Arts, Aug. 8 and 9 at Lakeview Park, serving as judges for the event’s Juried Arts Competition.
Students Nalani Roberts, Ellie Wilson, Ilene Antonov, Judas Ivey, Herb Sielaff, Erin England, and Dally McEwen joined CWI Studio Art faculty to evaluate artwork featured throughout the annual festival.
CWI Studio Art students have participated in judging the festival for more than 15 years, providing generations of students an opportunity to take concepts and skills developed in the classroom and apply them in a real-world setting.
“It is a great experience for our students because they can apply ideas that they learn at CWI in a different setting,” said Associate Professor of Art, Goran Fazil. “The judging process involves a group discussion related to elements and principles of design.”
Students evaluated a wide variety of mediums, techniques, and artistic approaches, ranging from craft-related works to pieces more closely associated with fine art. The variety gave students exposure to different forms of creative expression and perspectives as they worked together to evaluate each piece.
Students also worked alongside their peers and faculty, sharing perspectives and considering different viewpoints as they evaluated the entries.
Beyond the judging experience, participating in the festival allowed students to connect with one another outside the classroom and engage with artists from throughout the community.
The Nampa Festival of the Arts is a longstanding Treasure Valley tradition that brings artists and community members together at Lakeview Park to celebrate creativity and the arts. CWI Studio Art’s continued involvement in the Juried Arts Competition gives students an opportunity to apply what they are learning at CWI while building connections with artists and the broader community.
