Nationally acclaimed artist Jen Stark discussed her childhood influences, her artistic evolution, and the importance of pursuing one's passions during a virtual meeting Aug. 23 with young artists at Quartz Hill Elementary School in Gilbert.

Each year for Quartz Hill’s Innovation Night, students work on a collaborative school-wide art installation. Last year, Quartz Hill art students focused on Stark's life and career for the art installation, specifically focusing on her dynamic and colorful drip paintings.

Darlene Hibbs, the art teacher at Quartz Hill Elementary, created lessons based on the school’s art scope and sequence, assigning each grade level a particular color concept and color theory within the Arizona art standards of Creating, Presenting, Responding, and Connecting.

Once the school-wide installation was complete, Quartz Hill posted the artwork on social media for family and friends to enjoy, which in turn led to the artist and school making an inspiring new connection. 

“It was exciting to be able to connect with Jen Stark over the summer," Hibbs said. "She was happy to see our students’ art and offered to meet with them virtually. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity and the students were thrilled when they heard they would meet with the person they spent the whole school year learning about."

Students who had worked on art pieces the previous school year gathered in the school’s cafeteria and sat on a Zoom call with Stark.

During the call, Stark talked about her childhood and what inspired her to become an artist. She discussed the many ways her art has evolved, the obstacles she has overcome, and the different mediums she uses to create her art.

Ultimately, the overarching message was focused on inspiring the students to pursue their passion, no matter what it is.

At the end of the call, Quartz Hill students thanked Stark by proudly waving their own individual art pieces inspired by Stark’s work and holding up a sign made just for her.

“Seeing the students’ art and their enthusiasm for my work was really fun,” Stark said. “I was inspired by many people growing up, so I hope to be someone who inspires the next generation of artists. It’s a blessing and an honor to connect with students and be a voice that encourages them to pursue their passions.”