An audible “wow” from the audience of 30 to 40 adult artists and art supporters opened the annual MIVAL scholarship luncheon, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church’s Parish Hall on Thursday, May 5. Three MIHS seniors — all art students — were in the process of setting up “Show and Tell” of their diverse artwork, and the MIVAL membership was impressed already by the first glimpses at photographic works, pencil drawings and jewelry work, with themes and techniques more expected from college students.

So it is obvious why these three poised and well-spoken students each won a prestigious MIVAL Senior High School Scholarship Award for 2011 ($500 each). The recipients are Sooji Lee, with detailed pencil drawings and elegant collages; Genevieve Pan, with her inquisitive photographic works; and Molly Streeter, for jewelry out of metal and recycled materials. The three seniors were selected out of a very close field of 12 fellow art students, all with similar talent, techniques and tenacity.

Teachers Rose Gifford, head of the MIHS Art Department, Cyndy Jensen and Robb Wick also attended the event, proud and readily available for praises and comments.

MIVAL (Mercer Island Visual Arts League) is dedicated to promoting and enhancing art on Mercer Island. The organization raises funds every year to support student scholarships for future art endeavors. MIVAL is very pleased and proud to support these talented students. The community is invited to view their work along with other Island artists beginning May 19 until June 12 at MIVAL Gallery, located at 2836 78th Avenue S.E., between Baskin Robbins and the North end QFC. The Gallery is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday.