---

Testimonials about PAL Activities

Rachel Zhou – recipient of the 2023 “Best of Show” award in the High School category

I had such a wonderful time participating in the PAL’s Pals 2023 Youth Art Show and Competition. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to show my painting in the Stoneridge Mall where so many people can see it and enjoy it, along with the amazing artworks from my peers. The judges’ feedback was insightful and rewarding, and I’ve used the prize gift card to buy all kinds of supplies for future artworks! I made connections with many experienced artists, fellow student artists, and more. I can’t wait for the 2024 Youth Art Show!

Angela Qian, recipient of the 2023 special Stoneridge Award in the High School category

“In my experience, PAL’s Pals 2023 Youth Art Show was an amazing way to promote creativity throughout the community. I got to showcase my art at Stoneridge Mall, a place that I frequently visit, which was awesome to see.  

The reception was very welcoming, and I met like-minded people. Overall, it’s definitely an exhibit you don’t want to miss!”

Shresthank Singh, recipient of 2023 Honorable Mention and special Stoneridge Award in the Middle School category

“The event provided an excellent platform for me to display my skills. Receiving guidance from respected judges and artists enriched my experience. Securing a medal and recognition served as a significant morale boost and a source of inspiration. I must also commend the exceptional organization of the event. I am enthusiastic about participating in future editions regularly.”

Rekha Joshi – Show Chair, 2023 PAL’s Pals Youth Art Show

“I always like to encourage young artists to showcase their talent and creativity! The PAL’s Pals program has the same objective and so I decided to lead the show. This is a great opportunity for Middle and High school students to showcase work, receive judges’ feedback and recognition that will add merit for college applications.”

Peggy Magovern – Art Instructor and PAL Member Artist performing art demonstration during a PAL art show

“I think the demos are a fantastic way for people to see just how possible it is to learn a new skill, especially a creative skill that allows for personal growth and discovery. Any questions a visitor might have about art becoming a new activity can be answered, but the personal encouragement that comes from this meeting can perhaps make the difference between a dream and reality.”

Amy Greenberg – 2023 PAL Wall Solo Show Artist

“I wanted to thank everyone who turned out to my recent meet and greet at the PAL wall in the Firehouse Arts Center, August 5th. It was wonderful to be surrounded by the art community, family and friends.” 

Jill Vellinger – 2023 PAL Artist at Tri-Valley Artist Studio Tour Event (TVAST organized by AVA)

“I was truly amazed at how well organized and promoted the event was! And as a new PAL member, it was wonderful for me to be at the Firehouse and get to know some other artists. It was also a gift to get to meet and talk with so many people who visited and are interested in art, from small children on up. All I can say is, “Wow, wow, wow!”

John DeVilliers: Show Chair – “Healing Spaces” PAL-John Muir Health Show

“Last year I experienced the joy and trepidation of running my first art show. Luckily, it was for a very worthy organization, the John Muir Health’s Auxiliary group. The goal of this art show is to help bring a sense of well-being and peace into the sometimes hectic and stressful lives of the patients and staff of John Muir Hospital and, more widely, to the entire surrounding community. Even though I had a sharp learning curve, the challenge and fulfillment of running such a unique and successful show was well worth it.”

Jan Loomis: 2023 PAL Programs Co-Chair

 “As an artist my goal is to continue developing the skills and techniques needed to bring my work from mind to hand. As PAL Programs Co-Chair, I hope to help introduce new mediums to our members, while continuing to explore the areas that will further our goals as artists.”

Shrey Purohit – San Francisco based artist participating in 2022 Paint Pleasanton Plein Air Painting Event

“I had a great time painting around Pleasanton and on Main Street. Practicing urban landscape scenes in San Francisco it was a lovely switch to paint the rolling hills around Pleasanton. The warm end of summer day from daybreak to night fall was a great magical day to be painting.”

Beth Okurowski, Scholarship Chair (2018)

“As PAL’s Scholarship Chair, I am always on the lookout for art programs in need. I certainly found that at Foothill High, Pleasanton’s alternative high school. In collaboration with Pleasanton Cultural Arts Council, we supplied about $2,000 worth of art materials and I served as an on-site painting instructor for five consecutive weeks. The students remarked that they felt that we cared for them, and that we helped to bring their art program to a new level. These are the kids that are often overlooked, so we felt very good about providing these materials and services.”