A student art show can be exciting but also a bit stressful for art teachers managing everything. Whether this is your first or 10th art show, here are seven tips to help reduce stress for your upcoming art show.

Plan Ahead and Stay Organized

Organize a timeline well in advance, from the theme of artworks to the actual art show date. Have clear deadlines for completing and framing artwork for each student. Give everyone plenty of time to create, prepare and hang the artwork in advance to create a smooth work flow before the event. Create a checklist for everything: list of teachers with updated student rosters, student labels, display materials needed, storage for artwork, reserving the venue, venue setup, volunteers, invitations, art show activities, and refreshments. Breaking down tasks into smaller chunks will help you feel more in control and prevent last-minute stress.

Create a Simple and Inviting Display

When arranging the artwork, group by grade level and homeroom teacher. Color coding works great for this so it is visually easy for families and students to find their artwork. For example all 1st grade art is glued to red butcher paper, 2nd grade is orange, etc. Avoid overcrowding the display space. Butcher paper clipped to the ceiling tiles or folded cafeteria tables work great to keep artwork vertical. Consider making a map or chart with the color coding to help families navigate your art show. While it’s tempting to create an elaborate show, sometimes less is more.

Involve Students in the Process

Make the student art show a collaborative effort. Get students involved in setting up the display, creating invitations, designing posters or signs for the event, or even helping to curate the show. Ask each student to make a hand drawn invitation for their families with the time, date and place a week before the event. Former alumni can be invited back to help with supervision, sales or to play music for the event. This fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the event.

Delegate Tasks

Don’t try to do everything yourself. Ask students, parents, or fellow teachers for help with things like setting up, taking down artwork and displays, and guiding guests. Collaborate with your PTA or PTSA to see if they can help with hanging the artwork, tearing down, and spreading the word. Contact the local NHS or NJHS for student volunteers. Delegating tasks will give you more time to focus on ensuring the event runs smoothly.

Promote the Event

Try to combine the art show with another event to help increase participation in the event. Use school newsletters, texts, emails, social media, and flyers to spread the word about the art show. If possible, create a buzz around the event with sneak peeks of the art or a behind-the-scenes look at the preparation. Invite families, local community members, superintendents and other teachers to attend.

Celebrate All Artists

Most importantly make sure every student has a work of art displayed at the art show. This is why the updated class roster checklist is important. Ensure every student’s work is valued. You could have certificates or awards, but it’s important to acknowledge each student’s effort, regardless of the outcome. Consider creating a “thank you” wall with shoutouts to all participants to show appreciation for their creativity.

Embrace Imperfection

Art shows rarely go perfectly, and that’s okay! Understand that some things might not go as planned—whether it’s a technical glitch or a hiccup in the setup. Take a deep breath and roll with the punches, remembering that the goal is to celebrate the students’ work, not create a flawless event. By planning ahead, involving others, simplifying the process, creating a peaceful space, and letting go of perfection, you’ll be able to reduce your stress. After the art show, take some time to reflect on what went well and what you would change for your next art show. This is a valuable and priceless experience for your artists; make it manageable and enjoyable for you too.

Thank you for reading! – Trista

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