It’s been a change of pace in the Nansemond-Suffolk Academy’s gymnasium recently.

Instead of basketballs and cheering fans, it has been home to the hundreds of pieces of artwork participating in the school’s annual art show.

“We’ve had the show here for more than 30 years,” Fine Arts Chair and art teacher Cleta Norcross said. “It’s evolved throughout the years. It’s neat for the students to have this kind of an opportunity and for teachers to see a talent we don’t always see.”

Students in Art I through advanced placement art classes submitted their favorite pieces of art they’ve worked on throughout the year for the show.

The show is judged and awards are presented in several categories.

Senior Lauren Gersbach won best of show for her paintings. While she had several pieces in the show, she had a group of paintings she worked on for advanced placement art that are displayed on an easel at the front and center of the gym. As a body of art, she spent the whole year working on them.

“I remember when I was a little girl, my sister worked toward being best in show,” Gersbach said. “So, I always wanted to be best in show. I was surprised when they announced it, but I was so excited.”

The show consisted of a variety of mediums including charcoal drawings, pastels, original art and reproductions, photography and clay.

“It’s an open show to allow students to submit things they may not have been able to in other shows,” Norcross said.

The students are also able to sell their paintings — like at any real art show.

“We’ve had students sell their pieces for more than $50,” Norcross said.

While the money is always nice, the show allows the students to display the work they’ve done.

“It’s a culmination and review of everything they’ve been working so hard on during the last year,” Norcross said. “It’s a rewarding event for everyone involved.”