Throughout summer 2023, an exhibition featuring Moore students graced the halls of the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg. Pride Month: Student Exhibition featured work by nine Moore students—Kaylee Corbi, Courtney Drake, AJ Durden, Symphony Hodge, Sam Irvin, Sarah Lesnikoski, Magdalene Sanchez, Brooklyn Smith, and an artist who chose to stay anonymous—and was on view from June through August.
At the close of the exhibition, participating student artists were invited to take a field trip with Moore staff members to see their artwork on display in the Governor’s Residence. Kaylee Corbi ’26, Graphic Design; AJ Durden ’25, Art Education; Brooklyn Smith ’25, Art Education; and Courtney Drake ’26, Fine Arts were welcomed to the Governor’s Residence with a private reception, which included a tour of the historic building.
The students were also surprised with an unexpected appearance by Governor Josh Shapiro, who was eager to speak with the students about their pieces, which were displayed right outside his and First Lady Lori Shapiro’s offices all summer. Governor Shapiro asked each student to describe the process of creating their work, as well as the inspiration behind each piece. He also gave the students a tour of his own office, which was decorated with a painting created by his daughter, and spoke about his own efforts to bring more art into the Governor’s Residence that tells the story of progress in Pennsylvania—of which the Pride exhibition was an important part.
The Pride Month exhibition was also featured in Philadelphia Gay News this summer. Congratulations to all of our talented participating students!
