Seven-year-old Lillian Fryer knows how to create meaningful art.

Inspired by her close-knit family, she showed off a drawing featuring all of her family members — front and center — with the family SUV in the background. The piece hung on the wall at DeMello Elementary, where it had originally come to fruition during art class.

“My idea was to draw my family. They are who I love and care for,” Fryer said as she pointed out her father Bob, siblings Livia and Cameron, her mother Melanie, and herself.

“I had to see her work. It’s awesome, and she was very excited to show it,” her Melanie.

The second grader’s artwork was one of more than 400 pieces — from acrylic paintings to drawings — on display at DeMello's first ever art show on January 26. The gallery attracted a steady stream of parents and students.

Fifth grader Jay Heller showed off his depiction of a winter night, complete with a snowman and snow-dusted tree.

“I love the winter, and like having snowball fights,” Heller explained.

Art teacher Julia Mullins explained that she selected a piece of art to feature from every student’s portfolio, which included a collection of themed assignments from throughout the year.

“The whole class does the same project, but there is always room for students’ own creativity and originality,” Mullins said.

As the show came to a close and the crowds dissipated, Principal Cathy Maccini said she was impressed with the turnout and students’ excitement to show their parents their artwork, a sentiment echoed by Mullins.

“I’m so happy to see how many kids showed up. They are really proud and excited to show their parents and family members what they have been working on,” Mullins said.