By Kathy L. Collins
The 2013 High School Art Show, sponsored by GFWC Brandon Service League (BSL), was held on Thursday, March 7 at Center Place in Brandon. There were numerous entries from area high school students. The artwork consisted of oil, watercolor and acrylic as well as photography and sculpture.
The first-place winner in 2D was Emma Youmans from Strawberry Crest High School with her acrylic painting. First place for photography was Savannah Gibbs from Blake High School. First place for 3D was Aynna Sykes from Blake High School.
Artist and long-time area resident, Meletha Everett served as judge for the show. Dawn Galia, Executive Director for Center Place thanked Everett for serving as judge and said, “It takes a lot of time to judge a show like this.” Indeed, Everett was at Center Place for three hours viewing and examining each piece of art.
Everett said, “It was hard to pick a few out of so many.” Everett added, “I like the statements that each provided. They were thought-provoking toward the art and where they got their inspiration. Overall, it was a good, high-quality show.”
For over 20 years, the GFWC BSL has sponsored this show which is held each March. Over time, the show has grown as has the commitment of the members of GFWC BSL to the event.
This year, the GFWC BSL gave out approximately $725 in prize money to the students. In addition, the club gives $500 to the Arts Departments of Riverview, Bloomingdale, Armwood, Brandon, Newsome and Durant High Schools.
Dianne Forester, President of GFWC BSL said, “We like to be able to give back to the community, and working with students and in the arts is just one of the ways we are involved in the community.”
In addition to giving the monetary awards, the members of GFWC BSL provided the food and refreshments for the reception. The GFWC BSL is able to do all that it does in the community thanks to the support that they receive at their various fundraisers including their upcoming Spring Fling, set for April 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Police in Seffner.
For more information and to view the photos of the winners of the High School Art Show, please visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org.
