RANKIN INLET - Three schools in Rankin Inlet joined forces to put on a students' art show this past week.

The display was held at the Simon Alaittuq School (SAS) gym and featured artistic efforts from students in kindergarten all the way to Grade 12.

Jayda Pilakapsi, 10, and Tatonya Autut, 11, right, enjoy some of the work created by students in Grades 5 and 6 at a student art show at Simon Alaittuq School in Rankin Inlet this past week. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

SAS principal Bev Hill said her school has teamed with Leo Ussak Elementary and Maani Ulujuk Ilinniarvik to produce the show for a number of years now.

She said the event is eagerly anticipated by many students each year.

"We really enjoy putting the show together for the parents in the community," said Hill.

"It's a wonderful way for everyone to see how the kids' artwork flourishes from kindergarten to Grade 12.

"It's also an opportunity for the community to see a bit of what's going on in our schools from another perspective."

Hill said the turnout at this past week's art show wasn't the largest she's ever seen, but it was quite solid.

She said it was gratifying to see how many people were impressed by the quality of work they saw at the show.

"The show is an alternative to sports, which we often hear about, and shows the talents of some of our other students.

"We have some very good young artists in our schools and, sometimes, we don't seem to toot their horn enough.

"This show gives us the chance to highlight their talent and show the community what they're capable of."

Hill said the kids take a great deal of pride in knowing the community will be looking at their work.

She said those who submit pieces to the display work hard on their creations.

"Knowing the show is drawing near gets a number of the students pumped up.

"The parents who came out were very positive about what they saw, and couldn't believe how good some of the work was.

"It gives some kids the chance to shine in a different light.

"The parents found the show to be a great mix of art from all grades."