The Santa Fe High School Visual and Performing Arts Department recently hosted its annual Art and Fashion Show, placing the spotlight on students’ creative talents in art that ranged from traditional media to fashion and performance. 

This year, the show’s title was “Dark Mysteries” and students’ muses included literary masters such as Jules Verne, Mary Shelly, and Edgar Allan Poe. Students’ artistic inspirations also came from movie director Tim Burton, the Mexican traditions of Dia De Los Muertos, and television shows such as “Oddities” and “The Twilight Zone.’ Students worked for several months on their art projects for the show. 

Organized by Jessica Joy Guiragossian, Santa Fe High School’s Visual and Performing Arts Department Leader, the event featured student art on display, fashion designs, and performances ranging from classical ballet to slow-moving zombies, transforming the gymnasium into a magical environment.

"The Art and Fashion Show is a success because we have more than 500 visual and performing arts students working hard to produce this event,” Guiragossian said. “The best part for me is seeing my students take pride in what they make.”

Students said they were excited by the opportunity to have a larger audience view and comment upon their work.

“I have never placed any of my previous artwork on display for others to see,” said student Ricardo Garay. “I worked hard on my projects and it was great to hear what people had to say about my art.”

“I am extremely proud of my art because it is proof of how much I have improved – going from amateur doodles to being confident in drawing human faces,” said student Stephanie Ortiz. “I would like others to know that my art class is everything an art class should be – relaxing, creatively stimulating, and taught by the best possible teacher.

“My art class is where I can unwind and tap into a creative part of me I didn’t realize I had,” Ortiz added.

Santa Fe High School Principal Kevin Jamero said the event has become an annual highlight for the school.

“The Santa Fe High School community came out to support and appreciate our very creative and dedicated art students and their teachers who put their hearts and souls into producing the Art and Fashion show each year,” Jamero said. “We’re always amazed and inspired by their works of art.”

Proceeds from ticket sales for the event go to the Santa Fe High School art club and art students.