This year’s Art Salon was extra special, as it took place at the new CLIFF Center at Briarcliff High School and doubled as its grand-opening.
The CLIFF Center, which is an acronym for Collaborative, Library, Innovative and Faculty Forum, was highlighted in Superintendent Jim Kaishian’s speech.
“Tonight isn’t just about unveiling a beautifully renovated space,” Dr. Kaishian said. “It is about celebrating how our learning environment and our vibrant school culture come together. The CLIFF is a true hub of creativity and collaboration where students and faculty thrive.”
Dr. Kaishian thanked those involved in bringing the CLIFF Center to life, including former Board of Education President Michael Haberman, current President Michelle Woerner, Vice President Ken Torosian and BBS architects. He thanked the art and film teachers and students for the stunning work displayed at the Art Show.
Tom Staudter, state Senator Pete Harckham’s communications director, presented Dr. Kaishian with a certificate recognizing the opening of the CLIFF Center. Dr. Kaishian thanked Sen. Harckham and his team for providing the district with a $50,000 grant this year.
Next, National Art Honor Society Co-Presidents Abigail Chung and Meena Chrzanowski cut the orange ribbon.
Afterwards, guests mingled and viewed art that included paintings drawings, photography, ceramics, printmaking and graphic design. They nibbled on refreshments provided by the PTA and listened to live classical music played by fellow students under the direction of Michael Fraioli.
Later, mural artist Christopher Rios spoke about his art and his path to becoming a traveling mural artist, as well as his inspiration and the importance of art in our lives.
Next, the art and film teachers presented students with a variety of awards.
Jessica Dubin presented two students with the Rhoda Holzer Memorial Fine Art Scholarship, which is supported by the Rhoda Holzer Memorial Fine Arts Fund. The awards are given each year to Briarcliff seniors who plan to attend art school. Ms. Dubin read aloud a letter from the Holzer family, who were unable to attend the event. Serena Xu received the second prize while Samantha Anisman received the first prize.
Later, guests gathered at the amphitheater to view one dozen film shorts by Jamie Mandel’s film students and members of the Future Filmmakers Club.
