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Lakes High School Photographers Shine at St. Clare Hospital's 11th Annual Art Celebration
The lobby walls at St. Clare Hospital (SCH) are now adorned with freshly-framed photographs by talented Lakes High School students. From local scapes such as Mount Rainier and the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge to a lighthouse in Hawaii and the Arizona desert, each piece tells a story through the lens of the talented artists.
The selected pieces were chosen through an anonymous review process by hospital staff and celebrated at the "Celebration of Art" reception this month. The event brought together students, their families, and local community members from Lakewood and Pierce County, all recognizing the hard work of the Lakes High School commercial photography class, taught by Paul Warrick.
“Our program aims to empower students to use technology, reflection, and intent process to capture images they’ve seen, felt, or imagined,” explained Warrick. "The work on display achieves this goal.”
Boen, whose work has been displayed for two consecutive years, says the experience "feels great." He found inspiration in an abandoned building in Alaska. “I thought it would be a good idea to get a photo for my photography class. I noticed the broken window and thought the valley would pop out from the dark background,” he shared.
Another exhibiting photographer, Caleb, captured his piece spontaneously during a hike, never imagining it would eventually hang in a hospital. “I was on the Skyline Loop Trail at Mount Rainier, taking a break from hiking. I looked behind me and saw the perfect opportunity to take a photo as I was going down the mountain. I like that you can see the different tree lines and the varying patterns in the mountain,” he explained.
Students received certificates of appreciation and image postcards of their work. After a year on display, each student will be gifted their professionally framed print.
Valued tradition at St. Clare Hospital
This event is a deeply valued tradition at SCH, underscoring the powerful partnership between the hospital, Lakes High School, and the broader Lakewood community. It celebrates local talent and reflects the hospital’s commitment to community engagement, healing through art, and supporting youth development.
“This event allows us, as a hospital, to connect with and celebrate our community in a meaningful way, beyond our role as a place for healthcare. The artwork displayed along this busy hallway captures the attention of patients, their families, visitors and our staff every day.” shared SCH President Matt Metsker. “Their photography provides a moment of peace, helping to ease the stress and anxiety of those visiting us. It is truly touching to see the way your artistic vision transforms a standard hallway into a space of healing and inspiration.”
