Story by: Evelin Cabrera, Staff Writer
Photo Courtesy Cypress College Art Department Website
The 2026 Photography Students Show at Cypress College is accepting student submissions for the exhibition from April 20 through April 24.
The annual exhibition provides a space for students to submit work across various different art forms, including art, dance, journalism, media arts design, music, photography and theatre. The show recognizes student work completed in class or independently and places it in campus settings for public viewing.
Kirk Pickler, instructional assistant in the art department said the exhibition began as a show for specific programs and later expanded to include all areas within the division.
“The student show is a way for us to celebrate, recognize and show the work that we’ve done in the division of visual and performing arts over the course of the year,” Pickler said.
He said the exhibition allows students to present work outside of performances or scheduled productions.
“There are a lot of ways that we allow students to exhibit their work or their talent,” Pickler said.“This is a way for us to allow anybody to enter a work or a performance.”
Students who completed at least one VAPA course between summer of 2025 and spring 2026 are eligible to submit. Each student may submit up to two works produced within that time period. Submission must be delivered in person to the Cypress College Art Gallery between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the submissions window, along with a completed form for each entry.
According to the submission guidelines, at least one work from each student will be included in the exhibition, with additional entries displayed if space is available. Accepted submissions include visual artwork, written pieces, recorded media and live performances. Work created outside of class may also be submitted if eligibility requirements are met.
Pickler said some students may hesitate to submit their work and addressed concern.
“It’s natural to be shy or hesitant about not wanting to show you work,” he said. “But some of the most interesting work that we get are things that students had no idea would be interesting.”
He said submitting work can help students share their perspective and develop their voice.
“Most students underestimate their ability to have their individual voice, and that voice is very important,” Pickler said.
The exhibition will open May 7 with a grand opening event from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Cypress College Art Gallery and the exhibit will run through May 21. The event includes students participation and attendance from families and community members.
“It’s a big event where families are invited, friends, and community comes out,” he said “It’s the moment where we recognize what students have done.”
Students can access submission forms by visiting the Student Entry Page:
https://www.cypresscollegeart.com/students-show-entry2026.
For any further questions about submission please email CCAGstudentshow@gmail.com
