Each spring the becomes a vibrant hub of artistic energy as it hosts the annual Â鶹ĘÓƵ Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) exhibition, offering a glimpse into the creative work of the college’s talented art students.
Drawing from work created in the Spring and Fall quarters of 2024 and Winter quarter of 2025, the exhibit included ceramics, painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and design — disciplines taught across YVC's Yakima and Grandview campuses.
TOP: Art students, faculty and staff, and community members attend the 2025 Department of Visual Arts opening reception held May 6. ABOVE: YVC Interim President Teresa Rich looks at “Modern Renaissance” by Katherene Anguiano, winner of the YVC President’s Award and the Creative Valley Award.
Kayo Nakamura, drawing instructor, underscored the vital role the exhibition plays in nurturing emerging artists and fostering their confidence.
"I am fully aware as an instructor of the rare and extraordinary opportunity it is to have one show slot a year for student artwork," said Nakamura. "It's always a treat to be able to invite students to participate, and at this beginning level this type of encouragement can be especially important."
Katherene Anguiano
Anguiano poses with her piece “Modern Renaissance” on YVC’s Grandview Campus.
Anguiano, who is currently working on her associate in arts transfer degree, showcased artwork for a second time in this year’s show, having three pieces in last year’s DoVA exhibit, two of which received awards.
“Being included in this year's show means a lot actually, since this is my last quarter at YVC it will be a great moment to remember,” said Anguiano.
After graduating this past spring, she plans to transfer and pursue a degree in criminal justice or criminal psychology.
Vanessa Alcantar-Gomez
ABOVE: Alcantar-Gomez poses with an untitled still life piece. BELOW: An untitled piece by Alcantar-Gomez that was included in the show.
Alcantar-Gomez is currently pursuing her associate in arts degree with plans of transferring to Washington State University to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.
As a new artist, Alcantar-Gomez was surprised her artwork was selected to participate in this year’s show.
“This is the first time I’ve taken an art class since attending YVC,” said Alcantar-Gomez. “Being included in this year’s show is a great compliment.”
Edwin Borges- Zamora
ABOVE: Borges-Zamora poses with a piece of his artwork in the HUB. BELOW: Self portraits by Alcantar-Gomez and Borges-Zamora.
Borges-Zamora, a Running Start student, is excited to be part of a gallery show while
still in high school. He selected an untitled observational drawing that he did in
his drawing class to include in the show.
“It means a lot to me as I've always been fascinated with the arts, and having my work on display feels so surreal to me,” said Borges-Zamora.
The partnership with the gallery and show also allowed him to connect with others.
“I've never been good with words or speaking my mind, so being able to express myself through visuals is my way of communicating.”
Zoe Tomlin
ABOVE: Tomlin poses with her artwork titled “Childhood Band-aids,” in the Larson Gallery in April. BELOW: Tomlin’s work “Into the Woods,” winner of the Larson Gallery Staff Choice Award. Tomlin also received the IIE Award for her work “Body of Work.”
Tomlin, who is working toward her associate degree, was excited to have her artwork
featured in a professional gallery for the first time.
“It really is important to me and means a lot to me that I get to be included alongside many other hardworking, talented artists,” said Tomlin, who is deciding between transferring to a 4-year university to pursue illustration or becoming a tattoo artist. “I've always dreamed of being in galleries and I hope there's more to come.”
Among the multiple pieces Tomlin included in this year's show was "Childhood Band-aids," a pink etching print that’s part of a series holding particular significance for her.
“It’s a piece very personal as I've always used things deemed childish by many to cope with my hurt,” said Tomlin. “I hope that everyone can find healthy coping mechanisms that lift themselves up.”
ABOVE: “Guardian Angel” by Jack Ramos Cisneros was this year’s Best of Show winner. BELOW: Ramos Cisneros, center, talks with art instructor Monika Lemmon during class on YVC’s Grandview Campus in January 2025.
Award Highlights
|
Best of Show |
Guardian Angel by Jack Ramos Cisneros |
|
YVC President Award |
Modern Renaissance by Katherene Anguiano |
|
Director’s Choice |
Family Dinner by Yasmine Hernandez |
|
Larson Staff Choice |
In the Woods by Zoe Tomlin |
|
Janice Buckler Memorial Award |
That Kiss by Taylor Spaeth |
|
Jane Stockwell Award for Excellence |
Untitled (Charcoal) by Brynn Connelley |
Story by Stefanie Menard, AA-DTA ’05, communications consultant. Photos by Menard, Dustin Wunderlich, director of community relations, Matt Barton, graphic designer/multimedia content producer and Juan Padilla, public relations student assistant.