In a world where the paintbrush strokes of well-known artists like Bob Ross have painted our imaginations, the Mid-South Scholastic Art Awards showcase the talents that exist within the Memphis community. This annual exhibition, designed for students grades 7-12, unveils local artists by shedding light on their unique perspectives and skills that enrich our cultural landscape.
“My teacher, Mr. Berlin, has really been trying to inspire us to compete in the art industry,” Hannah Yaghini (10) said. “Everyday he would give us an inspirational speech and so one day I was like, ‘Oh, I think I could submit this.’”
Yaghini herself acquired a Silver Key award for her art piece titled, “The Hidden Castle.” While some may harness their creativity through the lens of a camera, others choose brushes and pencils to bring their imagination to life. As participants embody their artistic spirit, they are not only fueled by the prospect of cash prizes, regional or national recognition and scholarship opportunities, but the chance to share a storytelling passion through their work.
“My topic shows people doing their daily activities, so I thought entering a student art contest would really raise awareness because it isn’t a subject that is really drawn a lot,” Emily Zhang (11) said. “My family and Mr. Berlin had faith that this would really show I mean something.”
This allowed Zhang to achieve seven Gold Key awards, five Honorable Mentions, one Silver Key award, one Senior Division Best in Show achievement and one Senior Division drawing award. From capturing inspiration to cultivating ideas, the art process involves more than just materials. Diving into the complexities of composition and precision, each artist grapples with the challenge of perfecting lines and swirls that allow a creative arena to become a workshop of dedication.
“For these pieces, I had to work based off observation, so I always need my own reference to work off of,” Allen Guo (11) said. “A lot of times when I have a piece, I have to specifically fit the composition in proportions that I think would bring a ‘balanced’ look. Then, there’s also equipment of course. I have to set up an easel and prepare paints and brushes.”
Beyond the strokes lies a deeper layer of meaning where inspiration intertwines with personal narrative. For these artists, the creative process becomes a way to convey stories that may not appear to the naked eye.
“[My artwork] basically depicts one of my friend’s grandmas doing something she likes,” Zhang said. “I know she would sow clothes for me when I was little so that’s really personal to me. Drawing everyday activities is really interesting. My art teacher gives me a lot of freedom but gave me the idea of like crocheting art and embroidery.”
As submission deadlines drew to a close, students witnessed their artwork open a doorway to achievements beyond completion. Over 100 Spartans including Yaghini, Zhang and Guo, received awards and regional recognition that serve as a stepping stone to a future of passion and success.
“This year, I received two Gold Key [awards] and the Middle Division Best in Show Award. I plan on entering Scholastic again next year and I definitely look forward to participating in other contests like the Mid-South Fair and Delta-Fair art contests as well,” Guo said.
