on a high note
Full STEAM Ahead
Popular Annual ARTfactory Event Boosts Students' Futures in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math RTfactory staff and professional artists honored high school students throughout Prince William for their submissions in the Gallery's 19th annual Off the Wall competition and show in January. Over 200 submissions were received, but only 44 works were accepted. ARTfactory Gallery Director Jordan Exum said the annual event helps students launch their post-secondary educational and professional careers. "The exhibition and competition is a great resume builder for students as it gives them firsthand experience exhibiting in a professional art gallery in the DMV region," said Exum. "Students are displayed in a professional art gallery just as any other artist in our gallery would be displayed, and it's a learning experience for them to understand that being an artist is a full time professional career, and it is within the realm of possibilities." The competition and show, though, are not only about art. Lockheed Martin sponsors the annual competition to encourage Manassas youth to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), using their art to build skills in those high-growth fields. At the end of ARTfactory's show, the exhibition travels to Lockheed Martin's Manassas campus for its employees to enjoy. "Additionally, students involved in OTW are invited to Lockheed Martin at the end of the ARTfactory exhibit for a private tour and reception at Lockheed's grounds in Manassas," said Exum. "The students have the opportunity to view LM labs, speak with employees, and check out potential job opportunities within the STEAM field."
ARTfactory Legends
RJ Weaver was one of the first Manassas students to participate in the Art and Technology category and won first place two years in a row. He went on to study industrial engineering at Virginia Tech. "Post high school, it's been so inspiring to see what doors can open when you share your passion with others, and Off the Wall was a wonderful opportunity to showcase my work with the community at a young age," said Weaver. "Also, having the
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chance to tour behind-thescenes at Lockheed Martin gave me a great understanding of how my skills in 3D design could apply to industry — before even going to college. Being involved in such a competition was quite beneficial to defining what paths I would pursue in university and beyond." Students often return to compete in OTW multiple times, said Exum, sometimes inspiring new categories for the competition. "Leon Sunga paved the way for the Wearable Art 1st place Wearable Art Winner OTW category in the Off the Wall 2017, Leon Sunga (designer and competition," said Exum. winner) and model Stephanie Mora. "He won first place in the Wearable Art category more than once, and always wowed the audience with his unique, innovative designs." For his first exhibition in 2016, Sunga made a paper dress with no prior experience creating garments. He created a wearable dress out of old book pages, tape, and crystal ribbon, that didn't fall apart when worn. His success inspired him to enter the competition throughout his high school career. "Participating in the show sparked my interest in fashion design which is what I decided to pursue after high school," said Sunga. "Currently, I am completing my final year at VCU's [Virginia Commonwealth University’s] fashion design program and intend on working in the fashion industry post grad," said Sunga.
Seasons of Growth
Exum said the Prince William community looks forward to viewing the annual OTW exhibition to celebrate the talented local youth and their artwork.
Photos courtesy of ARTfactory
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By Linda T. Kennedy
