Abundant Modesto art should raise hopes

On Dec. 5, I attended a reception for the Modesto Junior College art club gallery. I was very impressed by the exceptionally high quality art as well as the variety. These students show obvious dedication and talent.

This continues a trend I have been noticing around town. In addition to Councilman John Gunderson's dedication to the visual arts, I have also noticed the Peer Recovery Art Center on J Street. Then there is also the Art Walk on the third Thursday of the month.

These examples of the flourishing art scene in Modesto should give the pessimists in the community hope that Modesto is filled with dedicated and talented individuals. Too often, people complain about the lack of culture in this town. This should be taken as a strong sign to the contrary.

The arts and education are important for people of all ages. Maybe with better educational funding, the students at MJC can continue to grow and flourish and give inspiration to the high school teens who complain about this town. There is hope!

MICHAEL ZIVKO JURKOVIC

Modesto