After their grand opening in 2021, the Ruckus Coffee Gallery & Café has become a center for food and culture alike. It hosts weekly live performances, various family and community events, and most famously a month-long artist feature. 

Throughout the month of February, the featured artists are the Shaler Area AP art students from the Drawing and 2D Design courses. These students have the opportunity to showcase and sell their art directly through Ruckus, and for many of them it is an unforgettable first taste of their hard work paying off.

“I think the opportunity is extremely unique and allows artists to show off their ability. I did this last year as an AP studio design student, and after returning as a senior for the second art show at Ruckus, I would say my experience was amazing. The fact that I was able to see my art hanging up and hear people talk about it made me feel incredible; I felt like I was able to connect with the group,” senior Isabelle Dutkovic said.

This event was made possible by art teacher Mr. Jeffrey Frank. After he visited the coffee shop a few years ago and noticed the featured artist changing each month, he got into contact with the owner and successfully established his classes as Ruckus regulars. This year in particular has been extremely successful, especially in regards to sold artwork. 

“The students get to sell their work at whatever price they want. There’s no restriction on what they can ask for, and we had one student who sold their painting for $140.00 on opening night. Five pieces were already sold at the opening–the most artwork ever purchased that soon–so that was exciting,” Mr. Frank said.