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Young Artists, Big Dreams:

Celebrating the 32nd Annual FMCC Juried Regional High School Art Exhibition

There’s a moment that happens in every artist’s life.

It might begin with a sketchbook at the kitchen table, a charcoal drawing in a classroom, or a watercolor painted after school. At first, it’s simply curiosity. But then one day, that creativity steps out of the classroom and into the world.

For many young artists in our region, that moment happens at the Perrella Gallery at Fulton-Montgomery Community College.

This spring, the gallery proudly presents the 32nd Annual FMCC Juried Regional High School Art Exhibition, taking place March 30 through April 9, 2026.

For more than three decades, this exhibition has served as a launching point for emerging artists, showcasing the creative talent of high school students from across the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region.

A Tradition That Inspires the Next Generation

Each year, students from participating schools submit their work to be juried and displayed in a professional gallery setting—often for the very first time.

This year’s exhibition features students from:

Broadalbin-Perth

Guilderland

Johnstown

Mayfield

Mohonasen

Niskayuna

Scotia-Glenville

Shaker

Walking through the gallery, visitors will see a vibrant collection of paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, and mixed media pieces—each representing a unique perspective and voice.

For the students, this experience is transformative.

Seeing their work framed on gallery walls—viewed and celebrated by their community—can spark confidence that lasts a lifetime.

32nd Annual FMCC Juried Regional High School Art Exhibition

Where Community Meets Creativity

What makes this exhibition so special is not just the art itself.

It’s the way it brings people together.

Parents and families come to see their children’s work proudly displayed. Teachers see the results of years of mentorship and encouragement. Community members discover the creativity thriving in local classrooms.

And donors, supporters, and advocates for the arts see something even bigger:

The future of creativity in our region.

Events like this reflect the mission of the Foundation of FM, which supports programs and cultural initiatives that enrich both the college and the wider community. By helping sustain spaces like the Perrella Gallery, the Foundation ensures that young artists have opportunities to grow, explore, and share their voices.

An Evening to Celebrate the Artists

The exhibition concludes with a special Closing Reception and Awards Ceremony on April 9 from 6–7 PM, where students will be recognized for their artistic achievements.

This event is open to the public and offers a chance to meet the artists, celebrate their work, and connect with others who believe in the importance of creativity and education.

Visitors can explore the exhibit during gallery hours:

Monday–Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
or by appointment.

Light refreshments will be served during the reception, creating a welcoming environment for families, educators, and community members.

Why Supporting the Arts Matters

Behind every painting on the wall is a story.

A teacher who encouraged a student to take a risk.
A parent who helped buy that first set of paints.
A community that believes creativity deserves a place to grow.

When organizations and individuals support programs like this exhibition, they help ensure that young artists have a stage to share their ideas and dreams.

For some students, this show may be the first step toward a career in art or design. For others, it may simply be the moment they realize their creativity matters.

Either way, the impact lasts far beyond the gallery walls.

Creating art at FMCC

Join Us

The 32nd Annual FMCC Juried Regional High School Art Exhibition is more than an art show—it’s a celebration of young talent, community pride, and the power of creativity to shape the future.

We invite you to visit the Perrella Gallery, meet these incredible young artists, and experience the imagination and inspiration they bring to our region.

Exhibit Dates:
March 30 – April 9, 2026

Closing Reception & Awards Ceremony:
April 9, 6–7 PM

Location:
Perrella Gallery
Fulton-Montgomery Community College
Johnstown, NY

All are welcome.

Come celebrate the artists who will shape tomorrow’s creative world.