Convent 8th Graders Display Paintings at Local Gallery

An exhibit at the San Francisco Women Artist Gallery features the artistic talent of Convent eighth graders, whose paintings explore issues of feminism, sexism and identity.

The paintings, on display in the back showroom of the SFWA Gallery in the Inner Sunset neighborhood through March 31, are the culmination of a unit devoted to studying how women artists and art movements can help pave the way toward equality. 

From Guerrilla Girls to Pussy Riot and Sister Corita Kent, Middle and Upper Form art teacher Will Jaggers introduced students to the groundbreaking work of trailblazing women who made waves in the art world. According to Will, the idea for the project came from the students. 

Through critiques of each other’s work, students sparked discussions about the issues adolescent girls face as well as the struggle for women’s rights in Iran. To broaden the topic beyond his classroom, Will took students to see the “Hella Feminist” exhibition at the Oakland Museum of California and visit two women-owned galleries in Oakland — Slate Gallery and the Fourth Wall Gallery.

Finally, students created their own paintings to showcase at the SFWA Gallery, one of the oldest art galleries in San Francisco. While students have frequent opportunities throughout the school year to display their artwork and curate shows on campus, it’s less common to display their work for the public to enjoy.

“Feminist Activist,” as the show is called, opened on January 10 and runs through the end of March. Several students gave presentations at the exhibit’s opening reception. Please drop by during the gallery's regular hours — Tuesday–Saturday from 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Photo Album

Hover on the cover photo and use the arrows to scroll through photos or view the full album.