by Justin Vick

MOORESVILLE – Cheyne Campbell has gained a reputation as a talented artist.

She’s now trying her hand at organizing an art show to help the Mooresville Artist Guild renovate the Depot Visual Arts Center.

Sophomores in South Iredell High School’s International Baccalaureate program are required to complete a project on a topic important to them that can influence the community.

Cheyne chose art.

“I thought it would be interesting to organize a high school art show,” she said. “I always liked art since I was little. The more I did it, the better I got.”

Her mother, Michelle Campbell, is a member of the Mooresville Artist Guild. Cheyne has displayed her work in several of the guild’s youth exhibits.

Cheyne derived her art show’s theme, “The Universe Wants to be Noticed,” from a quote in John Green’s New York Times bestseller “The Fault in Our Stars.”

High school students were encouraged to submit artwork based on how they interpreted the theme. Cheyne didn’t expect to receive so many paintings depicting the universe and nature.

“I was expecting details of everyday life they think are important and notice,” Cheyne said.

She will also display artwork in the show, an acrylic painting of street performers in Guatemala that was showcased in a Mooresville Artist Guild exhibit last year.

Half of the commissions from sold work will go toward renovating the Depot Visual Arts Center, which involves converting the warehouse portion of the building into classroom and gallery space.

Susan Andre, gallery chair of the Mooresville Artist Guild, said she was impressed by Cheyne’s focus and efficiency in organizing the exhibit, which will feature 20 to 30 pieces.

Cheyne is now focusing her energies on promoting the show to her friends and the community.

While organizing an art show has proven to be more work than she anticipated, Cheyne said she hopes that the experience leads to more opportunities to pursue her passion for the arts.

Want to go?

The Mooresville Artist Guild’s exhibit, “The Universe Wants to be Noticed,” will be displayed 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays through Feb. 2, at the Depot Visual Arts Center, 103 W. Center Ave. The opening reception takes place 6-8 p.m. Jan. 11.