Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE – Nearly 250 fourth- through 12th-grade students in Kosciusko County submitted works of art to the Lilly Center’s annual Art Contest.
Artists followed the theme of “Water through the Seasons.” Twelve artists received cash prizes across four grade categories, according to a news release from the Lilly Center.
Each work of art was evaluated based on creativity, artistic merit and theme depiction. This year’s theme encouraged students to consider all the seasons a lake or stream experiences – not just the summer months.
Six public schools, one private school and home-schooled families participated and submitted artwork. Each student was required to write a short description to tie their artwork to the theme.
Alena Hindbaugh is a senior at Whitko High School. Her submission of a yellow swallowtail butterfly achieved third place in her age group.
“This project made me more aware of native plants that attract swallowtails,” she said. “Swallowtail butterflies represent a time of new beginnings and transformation, reflecting the transformation of winter to spring.”
Prints of the winning artwork will be displayed in the South Whitley Community Public Library, The Alley in Warsaw and at an art show reception at the Lilly Center. A magazine with the winning art will be published in the fall.
In addition to artwork being displayed and published, winners receive $100 for first place, $75 for second place and $50 for third place.
Winning artwork and artists are as follows:
4th/5th/6th
1. 1st: Claire Lindquist, “Flying Through Time and the Seasons” 6th, Homeschool/part-time Lakeland Christian Academy
2. 2nd: Bridgette Mast, “Spring Peeper” 6th, Lakeland Christian Academy
3. 3rd: Lillian Walker, “The Ducklings First Swim” 6th, Lakeland Christian Academy
7th/8th
1. 1st: Laura McCullough, “Leaves & Streams” 8th, Lakeview Middle School
2. 2nd: Caleb Handy, “What a Wonderful Day…” 8th Lakeview Middle School
3. 3rd: Nayomme Smith, “Spring Blossoming” 8th, Lakeview Middle School
9th/10th
1. 1st: Kate Long, “Where the Cattails Grow” 9th, Whitko High School
2. 2nd: Breawynn Neer, “Golden Silence” 9th, Whitko High School
3. 3rd: Elyse Engle, “Hello Camera!” 9th, Whitko High School
11th/12th
1. 1st: Hannah Moore, “Steady through the Seasons” 12th, Whitko High School
2. 2nd: Julia Stover, “Misty Morning” 11th, Wawasee High School
3. 3rd: Alena Hindbaugh, “Spring Beauty” 12th, Whitko High School
The Art Contest is just one of four educational programs offered by the Lilly Center for K-12 students. Alongside it, Lake Adventure Day, Classroom Lake Experience and destination field trips provide hands-on opportunities for students to connect with and learn about the natural environment.
The public is invited to the art reception at the Lilly Center on May 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., located at 806 Connection Circle, Winona Lake.
The Art Contest is underwritten by Lake City Bank, City of Warsaw Stormwater Utility, Wawasee Property Owners Association, Kay Young, and the Lake Tippecanoe Women’s Association.
