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As previously written, the first-ever Clark County Public Schools Visual Art Showcase, which took place in March, featured works on display at the Clark County Public Library. 

On Wednesday, March 26, many works were recognized. 

The K-12 Visual Art Showcase Awards Reception took place at the public library from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

“It was really successful for us. I think all of the art teachers are really proud and impressed,” said Molly Sell, an art teacher at Baker Intermediate School. “The library was really excited [plus] its staff…it was really good to see it was beneficial for both parties.” 

The district-wide art showcase, first thought up during summer planning sessions, saw art teachers across CCPS choose two-dimensional and three-dimensional art pieces to display at the library. 

While two-dimensional art might include drawings, paintings, collages, and more, three-dimensional pieces include art made of clay, cardboard, or paper structures. 

The event, which featured a public vote, drew the attention of others throughout the community – with Winchester Mayor JoEllen Reed and more making an appearance. 

“It was really sweet to feel the support of the administration of Clark County Public Schools and just the community in general,” Sell said. 

In the 2D Art category, Hannah Lam was the third-place winner, with Paige McCormack and Sadie Harris in a two-way tie for second place. 

Showing that multiple students excelled, first place featured a three-way tie between Ariella Grubbs, Belle Galloway, and Jenna Powell. 

The 3D Art Award featured third-place winner Hannah Manley, second-place winner Jill Akers, and first-place winner Lili Fitzgerald. 

In the category of overall school award winner, the top scorers were Auburn Warner (Conkwright), Annie Flatt (Justice), Emonnhi Hill (Shearer), Charlotte Meadows (Strode), Isabella Negron (Baker), Audra Hoefner (RDC), and Liam Adkins (GRC). 

Overall, district award winners, given to the local artists who had the highest scores from district judges alone, were Allen Asbury (elementary), Jose Alvizures Santos (Baker), Levi Vaughn (RDC), and Libby Taylor (GRC). 

The contest’s judges included CCPS School Board members Paula Thomas, Dora Hall, Carl Kiser, Amber Murphy and Tiffany Austin. 

In addition to viewing the artwork, part of the enjoyment for Sell came while overseeing the work being completed. 

“I get to watch their process, and talk with them, and hear their ideas,” she said. “It was really sweet for me, knowing that all that hard work was seen and noticed by the judges.” 

Sell was also acknowledged for her efforts by CCPS. 

“I love art, and I love my students,” she said. “It’s just so fantastic to be a part of something like this. I am grateful to have wonderful colleagues, administrators, and families who love and support the visual arts! I feel very blessed to be a part of CCPS.” 

Certainly, not least, the students had a positive reaction.

“They were walking around and celebrating and looking [at] their artwork,” Sell said. “Students were excited to have an opportunity to showcase and feel a little special. Art has a really unique way of drawing people together, but also really highlighting the individual.”