"The annual High School Self-Portrait Show is a vital experience for high school students. It offers more than just a chance to display their creative work—it provides a powerful introduction to the professional art world. Being part of a gallery show helps students understand the significance of presentation, audience engagement, and the emotional impact of seeing their work in a curated space. Thank you, Chalk It Up, for providing this opportunity for our student artists."

- Mollie Morrison, CK McClatchy High School Visual and Performing Arts

The Big Day of Giving is Thursday, May 1stbut early giving starts now!

2025 High School Self-Portrait Show

How your Big Day of Giving donations directly impact the next generation of artists.

March is Arts Education month in California and we honored the next generation of artists and arts educators by holding the 24th Annual High School Self-Portrait Show at Verge Center for the Arts.

High school art teachers were invited to participate by assigning a self-portrait to their students, then submitting their best work for the show. We had 28 high school art teachers from 18 area high schools participate this year, resulting in 110 student entries. The mediums used were as diverse as the students, including ceramics, oils, acrylics, colored pencils, pen and ink, digital art, photography, mixed media, found objects, and more.

The High School Self-Portrait Show

was made possible by

Big Day of Giving Donors.

GIVE TO CHALK IT UP

"Chalk It Up upholds the highest standard for the fine arts education, creativity, and respect for art teachers. My vision for arts education in California is greatly influenced by their work."

-Theresa Nguyen, Art Teacher, Sheldon High School

"The annual High School Self Portrait show is a highlight of every school year, and a unique opportunity for students to celebrate themselves as part of a positive, thriving community of artists their own age. I've watched young artists take the confidence earned seeing their work in this show and grow into incredible young adults."

-Kyle Monhollen, Art Teacher, Davis Senior High School

GIVE TO CHALK IT UP

It Takes a Village...

Chalk It Up programs are powered by donors and volunteers. We couldn't do it without all of you!

Thanks to the team of artists, teachers, and supporters who served as the jury for the High School Self-Portrait Show!

(Back Row, L-R: Marc, Teri, Dawn, Roneka, Chris, Farrell, Bill, Bree, John. Front row L-R: Eben, Robyn, Christy, Delgreta)

Learn more about the 2025 High School Self-Portrait Show, see the complete list of participating students, and peruse the photos from the reception on our website, chalkitup.org.