By Kyler Johnson/Gator Galaxy Staff
Every year, Scholastic recognizes students across the nation for every type of fine art imaginable. There are two award distinctions, a Gold Key or a Silver Key, both of which entitle the winner to a pin, certificate, and a large key to show their accomplishment.
This year, North Star had many students take home Silver Keys and earn Honorable Mentions, and also one Gold Key winner.
Senior Chandler Drake, a student of Mrs. Leisinger, took home a Gold Key for his geometric configuration ceramic pieces. Drake said, “I wasn’t expecting [the award]. I wanted to smash my teapot with excitement.”
Ameneh Al-Haidar (11), Ivie Lemond (10), Sarah Kay (12), and Milan Reeves (9) all received Silver Keys for their artwork.
The art submitted ranged from jewelry to digital illustration. Art teacher Jocelyn Reiss said, “I was glad. I didn’t know we’d get so many [awards].”
Even though many students were recognized for their pieces, Reiss said, “I think some were left out.”
Isabelle Amberg (10), Allison Pompa Tamayo (9), and Kasaria Robart (12) earned Honorable Mentions for their artwork., Kayla Wise (9) earned three Honorable Mentions for the three Tim Burton characters she created using ink and water colors.
Since the Scholastic awards are an annual event, students can submit their artwork each school year. Submitting work is an online process and students need a sponsoring art teacher.
“The Art department and art keep getting better,” said. Reiss. “It’s important that kids sign up for [art] classes.”
North Star offers many art classes from Beginning Photography to Beginning Drawing, so there are many opportunities for students to explore their creative capabilities. See your counselor or an art teacher for more details.
