Green Bay Southwest High School opens art gallery in honor of longtime instructor

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – Green Bay Southwest High School unveiled a new art gallery on Wednesday, honoring longtime art instructor Patrick O’Brien.

The Patrick O’Brien Art Gallery features work from three of O’Brien’s former students, who have gone on to successful careers as a graphic novelist, an art and design department chair, and a tattoo shop owner.

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The gallery was O’Brien’s vision before his retirement in 1997, a dream that has now become reality.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate Mr. O’Brien, but also our students,” said Jon Taft, Art Department Head at Green Bay Southwest. “It’s a place where we can show the hard work and the wonderful artwork they create.”

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Taft told Local 5 News that the gallery will also be used to bring in professional artists, giving students the chance to experience high-level work up close.

In addition, the space will showcase alumni art, creating a lasting connection between past and present students of Green Bay Southwest.