Six Bellevue School District (BSD) students were recently selected to have their art featured in Bellevue Art Museum’s “20 Under 20” 2019 exhibit.

“20 Under 20” is designed to feature youth ages 13-19 as emerging artists, and is juried by the Teen Arts Council in collaboration with Bellevue Arts Museum curators.

In the past, “20 Under 20” has been an open call for art of all types, but this year’s Teen Arts Council posed the question: “What defines you?” This year, the annual teen-made and curated exhibition sought to highlight local teens’ understanding of themselves through the theme of identity.

Two students from Newport High School were selected for the exhibit.

Julia Park, a junior, said she’s been creating art since she was in third or fourth grade. Influenced by her professional artist grandparents, she said she was surrounded by art throughout her childhood.

She submitted a self portrait in oil called “Insecure.” The portrait represents the worries and stresses many high school students share.

“I remember when I was painting it I was stressed out with school and homework, and I didn’t even realize that mood or tone was translated into the painting until way after I finished it,” Park said.

Isha Sangani, a junior, said she has been creating art since she could remember.

“I’ve basically been drawing since I could hold a pencil,” Sangani said. “But I didn’t start taking lessons until last year.”

Sangani submitted a painting called “Carry These Gifts.” The painting represents the two aspects of her identity through symbolism.

“The painting is a pair of feet with henna on them and a pair of sneakers next to them,” she said. “It’s to represent my identity in Indian culture and U.S. culture.”

Both Park and Sangani said they were surprised when they learned their pieces had been accepted for the exhibit.

“I was pleasantly surprised. I really didn’t expect to be selected,” Sangani said.

The students selected for the exhibit were invited to an opening reception on Jan. 25.

“I was really surprised. Happy, of course, and it was really great to see it in the exhibit,” Park said.

The exhibit will be on display at the Bellevue Arts Museum until April 7.

Isha Sangani’s piece, “Carry These Gifts” is on display as part of Bellevue Arts Museum’s exhibit “20 Under 20.”

Newport High School juniors, Isha Sangani and Julia Park, were selected for Bellevue Arts Museum’s “20 Under 20” art exhibit. Madison Miller/staff photo