The art students at Dawson County High School are excitedly preparing for the first ever art show in the new Performing Arts Center on the school campus.

The event will run from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 5 through 9 and the new space is challenging the creativity of the show's designers, according to art teacher Jennifer Brinson.

"Students are very excited to be the creators of the first art show in the new PAC building," Brinson said. "They are having to break out all creativity to work in such an unfamiliar and large space.

"They are needing to develop their designs based off the architecture of this big, beautiful lobby."

This year's director, Katie Goodwin, developed the theme "Wildlife Expedition" that incorporates her childhood love of animals.

"I chose the theme of a wildlife safari, one that ties together both modern and tribal aspects and hopefully shows a sense of adventure," Goodwin said.

According to Brinson it was also great way to incorporate the school's mascot and colors.

"The art show will consist of neutral, natural colors that work well with maroon and gold, and there will also be tigers featured in the décor," Goodwin said. "We gained the Performing Arts Center this year, and we believed that showing school spirit would be one way we could show thanks."

Judging for the show will be done by DCHS alumni from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 6. The reception will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 9 and the awards will be given out that night at 6 p.m.

"We have been following a long tradition creating these art shows, now, I feel these students are creating history and new traditions," Brinson said. "This is truly exhilarating."

The artwork on display will include a wide range of 2D media like watercolor, color pencil, pen, pastel, graphite, charcoal, acrylic and some printmaking.

There will also be a number of 3D pieces like wheel pottery, ceramics, sculpture and some paper sculpture.

"They are centered around discovery and finding beauty in the world around us, and I wanted to show that," said the junior show director. "I hope that's a source of inspiration for my staff and the other students in art, because art is very much about opening our eyes to the world around us and discovering new things."

The assistant manager for the show is Mia Gorski and the show manager is Nicole Chumbley. Emma Langley is the publicity director and Jessica Huber is assistant publicity director. Exhibition managers for this year's show are Mazzy Martin and April Schlick. Chris Brown is serving as construction manager.