AVUHSD and MOAH:CEDAR Host 40th Annual Art Exhibition

LANCASTER, CA – The Antelope Valley Union High School District (AVUHSD) and Museum of Art and History Cedar (MOAH:CEDAR) celebrated young artistic talent at their 40th Annual Art Exhibition on Thursday, April 3. The event featured an awards ceremony in Cedar Hall attended by students, teachers, family members, and community supporters.

Approximately 180 art pieces were selected from over 1,000 submissions district-wide, representing the finest student artwork from across the Antelope Valley. The exhibition culminated months of preparation by museum staff who visited high schools throughout February to review portfolios and meet with promising artists.

“It’s a great opportunity to step outside your comfort zone,” said Cynthia Alvarado, Senior Technical Assistant for MOAH:Cedar. “If you’re serious about building an artist CV or pursuing a creative career, it’s essential to have the courage to share your work.”

The Best of Exhibition Winners were selected based on technical skill, quality, and the significance behind their work. Teacher Awards and Community Awards were given based on individual judges’ preferences.

The exhibition showcased the district’s commitment to arts education and provided students with professional exhibition experience. Visitors filled the museum to view the selected works before proceeding to the awards ceremony.

View list of 1st place winners below

“Make something, If only for yourself, every day”

Alvarado offered advice to aspiring young artists: “Always keep an open mind and a teachable spirit. Be willing to learn, take risks, and experiment with your craft. Don’t be afraid to try new things, make mistakes, or step outside your comfort zone—that’s where growth happens. Make something, if only for yourself, every day.”

The award opportunities available to students vary slightly each year, but this year there were over 80 certificates and recognitions—made possible by the generous support of local community members, businesses, and Community Award Sponsors, including the City of Palmdale, the Lakes and Valleys Art Guild, the Lancaster Museum Public Art Foundation (LMPAF), and the City of Lancaster. For students who may have missed out this year, it is highly encouraged to apply to the Annual Juried Show in the coming weeks for another chance to be recognized for your work.

All artwork from participating students will be on display during gallery hours, Thursday through Sunday from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, April 3 until May 18. MOAH:CEDAR offers a free Art Studio in the Andrew Frieder Creative Space that is open to the public. They also provide Figure Drawing sessions and Creative Pollination Artist Mixers for young artists looking to develop their craft.