The West Wendover High School kicked off National Arts Month 2025 in colorful style with the grand opening of its student art exhibit, “The Arts Within You.” The event brought together students, educators, city officials, and community members to celebrate creativity, self-expression, and the vibrant spirit of local talent. 

The ceremony began with a proud and heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem, setting a tone of unity and celebration. The event started off with opening remarks from Vice Principal Tyler Peterson praising the hard work of the art students. Principal Jared Holloway welcomed guests and shared words of appreciation for the students’ hard work and artistic vision, emphasizing how the arts continue to enrich both the school and the broader community. 

WWHS art teacher Catherine Paje followed with an introduction to the exhibit, highlighting the thought and creativity that went into each piece. Ms. Paje shared her pride in her students’ growth as artists, noting that “The Arts Within You” is more than an exhibit, it’s a reflection of how creativity connects people and captures the human experience. 

West Wendover Pro tem Mayor Nick Flores delivered an inspiring message that celebrated the importance of the arts in building strong, connected communities. Pro tem Mayor Flores praised West Wendover High School for fostering an environment where young people are encouraged to express themselves and dream big through art. 

Pro tem Mayor Flores proudly accepted certificates of appreciation for the City of West Wendover and the City Council from the West Wendover High School for allowing the students to have their art work displayed at the city hall and showing support to the community. 

Entertainment added an extra spark to the morning as the West Wendover Middle School Band performed a lively set that energized the crowd. West Wendover High School Alumni guest performer Gabriela Menjivar also took the stage, impressing the audience with her talent and singing a heart felt song. 

After the performances, attendees strolled through the exhibit, admiring the students’ paintings, and sculptures. Conversations buzzed as students proudly shared the stories behind their creations. The exhibit space was filled with laughter, admiration, and a deep sense of community pride. The West Wendover High School robotics team proudly spoke out their robot and the prestigious awards they have won, representing the school at state championship competitions. 

The ribbon cutting ceremony marked the official opening of the exhibit, with the principal and special guests joining together to unveil the collection. Applause filled the room as the ribbon was cut, symbolizing not just the start of the exhibit, but also the continued commitment to arts education in West Wendover. 

As guests mingled and enjoyed refreshments, one thing was clear: the arts are alive and thriving at West Wendover High School. “The Arts Within You” not only showcased the incredible creativity of West Wendover High School students but also reminded everyone that art truly has the power to bring people together. 

The West Wendover High School art exhibit is located at the West Wendover City Hall, 1111 N. Gene L. Jones Way. The exhibit will be on display from October 10^th, 2025 through October 17^th, 2025. So please stop by the city hall to show your unwavering support to these students and see their hard work and their creations.

Photo:  Cutting the Ribbon, from left, WWHS Principal Jard Holloway, Mayor Pro-tem Nick Flores and Arts Teacher Ms. Catherine Paje, surrounded by WWH Art Students