By Claire Smithers
Photo by Claire Smithers
Surrounded by many talented and artistic friends, sophomore Alex Benson grew up with an appreciation for the arts. Upon entering Salem College and being in the “city of arts and innovation,” Benson became even more involved with the fine arts. As a result of her interactions with her classmates and other members of the Winston-Salem community, Benson began becoming aware of the difficulty that many young artists struggle to become known and having their works displayed.
To assist these young artists, Benson created a project called Art of Winston-Salem, which is an Instagram page and Tumblr blog dedicated to young artists who wish to submit their works to be posted on the page. Using social media outreach, Benson hopes that the young artists can make connections and be recognized in the competitive art industry.
As for her long term goals, Benson hopes to open a studio or gallery where students from colleges and high schools can sell their works without having a large portion of their financial compensation cut and eliminating an age requirement by making anyone under the age of 18 sign a parent/guardian waiver.
If you are interested or know anyone interested in submitting their works, please email your name, age, area of residence, school, and gallery (if applicable) along with photos of the artwork, dimensions, medium, and date created to artwsnc@gmail.com. All forms of artwork are accepted including artists, sculptors, graphic designers, photographers, jewelers, calligraphers, and members of other art disciplines.
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