Student Art Exhibit opens at museum, runs through April

It was standing-room-only at the Putnam County Museum for the opening of the sixth annual Putnam County Student Art Show. More than 200 county residents flowed through the museum's art walk to see the exhibit of student art representing public schools throughout the county.

More than 200 people crowded into the Putnam County Museum for the opening of the sixth annual Putnam County Student Art Show.

"The Student Art Show is always one of our most popular exhibits," said Tanis Monday, executive director of the museum.

This year's contest drew 133 submissions -- all of which are on display in the museum -- from students representing each of the county's public school districts, as well as a few home-schooled students.

Twelve students were recognized as Judge's Choice Award winners by judges Vicky Krider, Mickey Meehan and Barbara Bates.

Award winners are:

Grades K-2:

Stephanie Morales--Deer Meadow

Kory Galloway--Cloverdale Elementary

Maci Hodge--Ridpath

Grades 3-5:

Desiree Sizemore--Cloverdale Elementary

Nate Nees--Cloverdale Elementary

Halen Nichols--Tzouanakis

Grades 6-8:

Taylor Whitt--Cloverdale Middle School

Chloey Barnett--Greencastle Middle School

Kaylyn Hankins--Greencastle Middle School

Grades 9-12:

William Long--North Putnam High School

Jenna Berry--Greencastle High School

Ryan Raupp--North Putnam High School

The exhibit will remain on display through late April.

"We welcome everyone to stop by and see the creative efforts of Putnam County's youth," Monday said.

The museum is open to the public Tuesdays through Fridays from 1-4 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.

In addition to the student art show, other exhibits currently on display include:

-- The Sellers Family exhibit, celebrating one of Putnam County's oldest families.

-- The museum's Round Barn interactive children's area.

-- Historical exhibits on Prevo's Department Store, John Dillinger and the former Green Acres County Home.

-- World War I posters.

-- Permanent exhibits showcasing Putnam County art and artists.

The Putnam County Museum, located at 1105 N. Jackson St., Greencastle, in the old Kroger building, was founded in 2000. It mission is to collect, preserve and interpret the natural, historical and cultural heritage of the county and its people through education, exhibits and special programs.

The museum's permanent collection of more than 2,000 Putnam County-related artifacts offers visitors a historical overview of the county.

For more information on the museum, visit www.putnamcountymuseum.org, or call the museum at 653-8419.