By Bradley Merk ‘14
The arts at Ignatius have a tendency to not be fully initiated into the school-wide environment. There are an abundance of varying talents here including writers, painters, musicians, and photographers who may not be given the attention their respective creativity deserves. Still, it’s an undeniable truth that there are many unique voices here at Saint Ignatius that should be heard. A perfect display of campus talent is available in the school magazine, Vista.
The issue for Vista as of now seems to be public awareness. It can be all too easy to try and initiate a conversation about Vista and receive in response, “I have no idea what you are talking about.” This is going to change now.
Vista is a literary arts magazine which can feature any sort of prominent art form that will fit on the pages. Poems, drawings, photos, paintings, short stories, and graphic designs–it’s all in there. As the Editor-in-Chief of Vista, Colin McDowell ‘13 explains, “Vista’s mission is to publish and display the authentic and creative works of Saint Ignatius students.” Speaking to the number of submissions, Colin says, “It’s truly inspiring to see the overwhelming number of submissions we receive each year. It not only reflects the individual student’s love of art, but this institutions promotion and development of artistic ability as well.”
Vista has previously been located in more discrete locations (possibly avoiding the “mainstream”) but when the new print issue is released before the end of the school year, Nicholas Labate ‘13 elucidates, “We’re hoping to place [the issues] in more “visible” spots (like around the library, in the senior lounge, Rade, etc). We also plan on putting a few issues around Ohio City.”
The future also looks bright for Vista. As a growing community, Vista is hoping for more students to submit their work and collaborate with all art clubs and groups on campus. They also encourage students to take a chance by participating in other art activities available at Saint Ignatius such as plays, musicals, choir, or submitting several of their works into the annual art show.
Vista meets on Mondays on the English floor. Its 10 committed members are willing to help students expand their level of artistic talent and ensure others that the arts are nothing to be intimidated by in the Saint Ignatius community.
