The University of Houston-Downtown's O'Kane Gallery spotlights works from around the globe, but some of its most provocative art emanates from Houston area high schools.

The gallery is currently presenting the exhibition, "High Art," featuring more than 150 works created by Houston-area high school students. "High Art" has become an annual tradition for the O'Kane Gallery offering a venue for artists on the rise for more than two decades.

This year's exhibit will run through May 19 and includes a range of work—paintings, sculpture, mixed-media, ceramics, video, and more. The presented works are selected by art teachers at more than 30 participating high schools.

"For many of these students, this is the first time their work is shown in a professional gallery," said Mark Cervenka, director of the O'Kane Gallery. "Seeing their work here is a point of pride. It's very validating for them to see their work in a public exhibition."

Likewise, it's rewarding for art patrons and members of the UHD community to view new pieces from emerging artists, he noted.

"That's why the O'Kane Gallery is here," Cervenka said. "It's important that our gallery serves as a venue for quality art created by artists from all walks of life … and all levels of experience."

O'Kane Gallery hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday, and noon - 5 p.m., Saturday.