Knightly News

The process of making art can be brutal and beautiful all at the same time. Episcopal student artist Lila Cook drew inspiration from this thought for her work titled “Creative Process.” After many hours of creative toiling, Lila’s work will be on display in the Baton Rouge Gallery’s upcoming REAL-LIFE EXPERIENCE Juried High School Exhibition. A panel of professional artists selected Lila’s work from a pool of more than 200 pieces submitted by students throughout East Baton Rouge Parish. This is the second year running that Lila will display her work in this exhibition.

“I’m really excited,” says Lila with a bright smile. “This is really a confidence boost.” Lila says such recognition helps her feel more at ease with sharing her work with others. Last year, Lila’s “Troubadour” submission was selected for the juried exhibition, and she was surprised. “I was proud to share it with my family,” she says. This year, Lila worked hard to return to the exhibition, and she’s happy with her accomplishment.

Lila’s art teacher Veronica Hallock has supported her along the way and is thrilled to see her recognized. “Even for adults, it is a big deal to be selected for a juried art exhibition,” says Hallock. She points out that Baton Rouge Gallery is the largest art gallery in Baton Rouge and that organizers take the high school exhibition very seriously. “They do everything they would do for their member gallery,” says Hallock. That includes an opening event with hundreds of art enthusiasts in attendance. “They are elevating the level of arts in 9th through 12th grade,” she says. “This is a celebration of the best high school artists in Baton Rouge.”

Episcopal’s visual arts program is strong, with classes that connect students with artists and movements in the past while also helping them make sense of their emotions today. Beginning in Lower School, students participate in lessons with a dedicated art teacher who focuses on the experience of making art using the process-based approach to guide students in the elements and principles of art. In Middle School art, students build on these skills as they explore different mediums from painting to clay. In Upper School, a variety of classes offer experience in painting, pottery, drawing, sculpture, digital photography and wearable art. Teachers are professional artists with a passion for sharing their craft and inspiring the next generation of artists.

With two years of art gallery experience, Lila’s artistic future is bright. Join us in congratulating her on this tremendous honor, and mark your calendars now for the gallery opening.

REAL-LIFE EXPERIENCE Juried High School Exhibition Opening
Wednesday, April 3rd
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Baton Rouge Gallery – center for contemporary art

The exhibition will be on display from April 2nd through 25th.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.