Pine Bluff High School students have been using art to explore dreams in a new exhibition. “It Was All a Dream” invites viewers to step into a world where imagination and reality intertwine.
The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St., will host the exhibition from Nov. 20 to Feb. 26 in the Loft Gallery. The show opens with a reception from 5-7 p.m. Nov. 20. It is free and open to the public. The exhibition is sponsored by Pine Bluff Sand & Gravel Co., according to a news release.
PBHS art instructor Shalisha Thomas explains the theme. “The theme ‘It Was All a Dream’ came from our exploration of the Surrealist art movement,” Thomas said. “After studying artists such as Salvador Dalí and René Magritte, we discussed how Surrealism incorporates dreamlike imagery, symbolic elements, and unexpected or unusual combinations. I’ve noticed that many of my students naturally gravitate toward imaginative and surreal characteristics in their own work, so this movement felt like the perfect fit to introduce and build upon. Through this theme, students were encouraged to embrace creativity, curiosity, and allow their imaginations to lead the way.”
The students learned how to develop their initial sketches into fully rendered artworks. Some students explored mixing different media to create texture and contrast, while others strengthened their skills in blending acrylic paint. They also discovered how to draw inspiration from subjects they are personally interested in and transform those ideas into creative, original visual expressions.
“I am incredibly proud of the artworks my students have created,” Thomas said. “Watching them brainstorm, develop their ideas, and bring their visions to life has been truly inspiring. I am thrilled that they will have the opportunity to share their creativity with the community and showcase the talent they have worked so hard to develop.”
After the reception, the exhibition will be viewable by appointment. To schedule a viewing, contact Matthew Howard, visitor and gallery specialist, at mhoward@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375. For details, visit artx3.org/exhibitions/2025-pine-bluff-high-school.
