MHS shows off artwork of students, alumni

As the first weekend in February approaches, Merrill residents can prepare for two major events: the Super Bowl and the Mural Art Open House.

While the Open House may not compare to the Super Bowl in its notoriety, the annual Merrill High School Art Show has gained a following of its own, and the number of visitors attending the event is growing each year. Many guests also attend the Merrill Artisan Showcase, which nicely rounds out a day of viewing student artwork as well as the work of local adult artists.

This year's Open House will feature a large collaborative piece by Rachael Plautz and Michelle Gervais entitled Adam-One Blood, Many Nations, a United Nations Mural Mosaic. Lewis Lavoie, an internationally known Canadian artist, granted permission for the two students to reproduce his original mural, completed in 2007. Lavoie will make a guest appearance via satellite during the 3 p.m. recognition of the artists.

In addition to the collaborative mural, 10 new framed wall murals will be highlighted, along with art displays by Accelerated Art students and a variety of artwork throughout the building. Visitors can see a total of 70 large murals as they wander the hallways of the building.

Another highlight of the Open House is the annual Alumni Art Show. Former MHS art students are invited to display current work in the area adjacent to the commons.

The Open House runs from 1-4 p.m. and is free to the public. Paul and Susanna Gilk will be providing music in the commons area and refreshments will be provided.