On the first Friday of every month, the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA) hosts and organizes an art trail for the community. The First Friday Art Trail is a free, self-guided public art event that has taken Lubbock to the forefront of the Texas art scene. Held predominantly in the Lubbock Cultural District, this event brings together collectors, artists, and community friends for an evening of art, music, and fun. 

During each First Friday event, the local Therese Barrett Photography Studio hosts an exhibit. At the last art trail, all 14 students from the Advanced Placement Art class at Frenship High School had art showcased at this studio. 

A few years ago, Joey McLean, the Visual Arts Coordinator for Frenship ISD, answered a social media post and was awarded the opportunity to get his AP students on the schedule for the art trail. The Therese Barrett studio now holds a spot for them every year. 

For this past First Friday Art Trail, the students in the AP art class took a hands-on approach to the show. They curated and selected which pieces to include, then matted and organized all the artwork. They decided on prices and titles. 

The students also promoted the show through posters and social media posts. At the end of the event, three students sold their artwork, which made it extra special for them.  

“This was the first time I've put together a show with only one class involved,” stated McLean. “I think it helped the students take more ownership in the event.” 

For more information on attending the next First Friday Art Trail coming up in December 1, visit the LHUCA website HERE.