The Albert Lea Area Schools art exhibit is continuing its long-standing tradition of showcasing the artwork of area students.

The event will take place at Northbridge Mall for the third year in a row. Tom Mullen, an exhibit organizer with the Albert Lea Art Center, said the space at the mall allows for a greater volume of work to be displayed than they could ever hold at the Art Center. He estimates there could be up to 1,000 pieces of artwork on display once everything is brought in by area teachers.

The art exhibit showcases the work of students from kindergarten through 12th grade, including the work of students at St. Theodore Catholic School.

Albert Lea High School art teacher Samantha Jerdee said she pulls out pieces throughout the year and lets students know their artwork has been chosen for the art show. She has chosen a variety of artwork, including drawings and digital art,which is made with computer programs such as Photoshop. Along with ensuring to choose a variety of works, Jerdee said she likes to choose pieces she knows her students put a lot of effort into.

Fellow art teacher Raissa Byer, who also teaches at the high school level, said teachers try to bring pieces that represent the variety of classes they have and students they teach. Pieces she brought from students included paintings and sculptures.

“I think it’s nice for the students to have a chance to display their work outside the high school so that everyone in the community has a chance to see how well they’re doing and what kinds of things we’re doing at the high school,” Jerdee said of the opportunity the event provides.

Byer echoed her sentiment.

“I think it’s important for the students to share what they create,” Byer said, noting the event wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Art Center, which provides the volunteers who set up and help promote the event. The art show also has volunteers who man the exhibit while it is open to the public.

An open house will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. today to celebrate the opening of the Albert Lea Area Schools art exhibit. Light refreshments will be provided.

The exhibit will run until March 26 and will be open from 2 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays.