Sometimes one of the biggest challenges an artist faces is getting exposure. In other words, how does an emerging artist "emerge" into the world? How does an artist become known? The end of the school year is an opportunity for some student artists to embark on this never-ending journey. For emerging artists it is always rewarding when the diverse public views their work because at some level they are receiving recognition for their creative output. And this is certainly where the process of exposure begins.

Not only is it a rewarding experience for the artists, but the public as well. The public has the opportunity to view some imaginative and original pieces of artwork that, indeed, could be just the beginning of an even more prominent future.

As members of the public you do make a difference. Just as artists shape our artistic environment by continually challenging it with brave creations, you, the public, shape the artistic environment by supporting the advancement of visual arts in our community by attending exhibits. Perhaps you are looking at a piece of artwork and admiring its aesthetic expression, talking about the impression a piece of artwork has on you, interpreting, or discovering meanings and unmasking important messages behind the artwork. By doing any of these things you lead others to venture into the world of art as well, and at the same time help our emerging artists.

Whether you are a lover of art who is simply admiring, or a collector who is influencing the direction of the market, your participation in the visual arts is important. You are giving emerging artists exposure, thereby helping them launch their professional careers to possibly becoming established artists one day. Student shows are inspiring, imaginative, rewarding, stimulating, and not to be missed. Support the visual arts by attending a student or graduating exhibition in British Columbia!

Simon Fraser University: Opening reception, April 15th 6pm -10pm, 611 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC.

Emily Carr Institute: May 9th - 23rd inclusive, Emily Carr North and South buildings, Granville Island, Vancouver, BC.

Malaspina College: Progressions, April 23rd - May 8th, 12pm - 5pm, Nanaimo Art Gallery on campus, Nanaimo, BC.

Langara College: April 21st - 30th, Monday to Friday 8am - 9pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am - 7pm, Main Foyer, 100 W. 49th Avenue, Vancouver, BC.

Kwantlen College: Opening reception April 17th 4pm - 9pm, runs until April 28th. Monday to Saturday 10am - 6pm, Thursday 10am - 8pm, closed Sunday. 1266 72nd Ave, Surrey, BC.

Okanagan University College: "Eclectic Art Tricks", April 15th - May 1st, 9am - 6pm, North Kelowna Campus, Fine Arts/Health Building, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC.

At press time, the exhibition dates for graduating student exhibitions at other BC Colleges and Universities were not available. For details on any Visual Arts programs which are not listed above please contact the schools directly.