Young Guns Collective - 2024 Exhibition

Hello, fellow creatives!

Last June, we held our annual Young Guns Collective - Exhibition, and we couldn't be happier about how it turned out! This event wasn't just about showing off the fantastic art our students created (although there was plenty of that)—it was also about the time, hard work, and ingenuity that will often go unnoticed when putting together art gallery events. We believe that these kinds of hands-on, logistical skills are crucial to any developing creative career.

But first...

We've got to give a special shoutout to one student who truly stepped up: Amy Yuan! Amy took on the massive responsibility of Project Coordinator, and let me tell you...

She absolutely nailed it!!!

Amy's leadership skills were on full display, from organizing the event timeline to juggling various departments (from fundraising to event coordination) and ensuring everything ran smoothly. In the months leading up to the event, she worked alongside our staff members, most notably Winston Li, and together, they made sure the entire event came to life seamlessly, even when things got crazy hectic!

The show itself? Absolutely amazing.

Each student contributed to the event by showcasing one or more artworks and taking on a key role within the team, reporting to a designated staff leader. This hands-on experience immersed them in organizing a gallery event while receiving critical, constructive feedback from industry-experienced staff. Students honed their collaboration skills and navigated the quick decision-making often required in such dynamic settings. The two-hour event also featured guest speakers, including a highlight presentation from a representative of the Community Arts Council of Vancouver, adding valuable professional insights to the experience.

But back to Amy...

Amy didn't just manage the event from the sidelines; she was right there in the action as an artist (contributing work) and as our Exhibition Coordinator. From ensuring every piece was in its proper place to helping with last-minute adjustments, Amy's efforts helped make this event a showcase and an authentic experience for everyone involved. She ensured things flowed smoothly, checked in with various departments, and handled the details that made the show memorable.

For anyone considering art school or looking to build a portfolio, this type of experience (we give students) sets Young Guns apart from so many art portfolio studios. Amy showed us all that it's not just about creating art—it's about making things happen behind the scenes, too. Her work in curating, coordinating, and creating an unforgettable event is precisely the experience that will make her stand out amongst her peers at the Art University of her choosing.

To all our students, we're so proud of everything you guys accomplished during this exhibition. We know this is just the beginning of fantastic art careers. To us, the Young Guns staff, this wasn't just a "show" but proof that you're ready to take on whatever comes next.

Keep on creating everyone!

Sketch you later,

Shouh + The YG Team.