Exposure to exceptional art is ideal for budding young artists looking to advance their craft. That is why students in our Advanced Placement art classes were excited to visit The Hen’s Nest Gallery in Washington Depot, Connecticut, to view high-level work by renowned artist and illustrator David Suter.
The featured artist made his name by creating intelligent, mentally provocative images reflecting current events and political issues for The New York Times, The Washington Post, Harper's, and TIME, among others. Hen’s Nest Owner Ellen Prindle opened the gallery early just for our students and was happy to chat with them about the artist and his career. The eager Saints then had time to walk the gallery, much to their delight.
“It was so interesting to see illustrated art related to major historical events,” said Parker Caldara ’25. “I also appreciated how Ms. Prindle helped simplify the artist’s complex themes for us.”
Charles “Chas” Hollinger, Digital Communication, Design, and Innovation Co-Chair and Edward J. Duffy Family Art Gallery Curator, was grateful that students from his AP Two-Dimensional Design and AP Drawing classes enjoyed this enriching experience. “We had a wonderful trip to The Hen’s Nest, and I am thankful to Ellen for welcoming us and engaging with our students,” Chas said.
Kaitlynn Kenna ’26 was in complete agreement with her teacher. “It was inspiring to get off campus and see such impressive art in person,” she said. “I loved Ms. Prindle’s gallery and felt very much at home in her space.”
The group also had the opportunity to tour the nearby Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens for a sneak peek at an upcoming show by artist Theresa Bates, “Conversations with Color,” before returning to campus.