On November 18th, 2023, Walt Whitman High School celebrated the grand opening of the Vicki L. Dollin Art Gallery. The gallery was the idea of now retired Whitman art teacher Vicki Dollin, who came up with the idea back in the early 2000’s, and fought for over 20 years to make her dream come true.

The current art teachers at Whitman absolutely love the gallery, and believe it’s an incredible idea to inspire students to bring out their true artistic talents.

Mrs. Linda Salta says “the gallery is an amazing addition for all our Walt Whitman students… especially our creative fine art students.” She discusses how the gallery will be a “visual safe haven” for artists to “show their work and collaborate with fellow students” through learning about “different styles and techniques of artists” to “hopefully appreciate all the art that surrounds them everyday.”

Mrs. Erica Raji believes that the gallery is “an incredible platform for our students to showcase their best work… and give them a great sense of pride and belonging.” Mrs. Raji hopes that “students will not only build their self-confidence, but also create a significant and lasting memory from their time spent at Walt Whitman High School.”

Mr. Michael Rizzitello says that “it is a beautiful thing to have an art gallery in the school,” and he doesn’t “know of many schools that have one,” which further stresses the importance of having a creative outlet like this for students to “get involved in what art has to offer whether they like creating it or not.

Mrs. Jessica Flinn describes the opening of the gallery as a “significant achievement” that is “reflecting the dedication and creative vision of our community.” She says that, for students, it is “a tangible space to showcase their work” and give them “a sense of pride and accomplishment in their artistic endeavors.” Mrs. Flinn discusses how the gallery is “not just a venue for art, but a symbol of the enduring commitment to creativity within our academic community.”

Mrs. Gina Tinucci is “absolutely thrilled” that the art gallery has finally opened. She recalls how she “witnessed Vicki Dollin’s dedication, perseverance and hard work over the past 20+ years in establishing this beautiful gallery.” She describes it as “a true celebration of the arts” that “gives our students and community a space to showcase the visual arts” and “gives a better understanding and appreciation of art, while building a sense of pride and ownership in our school.” Mrs. Tinucci says that she is “very excited to finally have a stage for our incredible art students to exhibit their art and share it with everyone.”