Shore History Recognizes Student Art Challenge Winners

Shore History has announced the winners of its student art challenge, “Through the Artist’s Eye: 250 Years of America on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.”

Ribbons were awarded during a reception held May 20 at historic Ker Place in Onancock.

More than 45 students from four Eastern Shore schools participated in the challenge, which invited students in grades 6 through 12 to answer the question, “What does America’s story mean to you?” Students used the Eastern Shore as their inspiration, creating original works in pencil, paint, photography, clay, and mixed media.

The entries explored themes of history, community, patriotism, landscape, family, and identity.

“The body of work is inspirational,” said Shore History Executive Director Hilary Hartnett-Wilson. “These students captured America’s story and the spirit of the Eastern Shore in ways that are both personal and deeply meaningful. We are honored to celebrate this historic milestone through the eyes of our young artists.”

In the grades 6–7 division, first place went to Guadalupe Vazquez-Gomez of Nandua Middle School. Second place went to Winter Ford of Broadwater Academy, and third place went to Amelia Shotwell of Nandua Middle School. Honorable mentions went to Jayla Brown and Adiana Simuta, both of Nandua Middle School.

In the grades 8–9 division, first place went to Ethan VanScoy of Nandua High School. Second place went to Dayanni Davis of Nandua High School, and third place went to Layla Wheatley of Nandua Middle School. Honorable mentions went to Zion Smith, Henvi Patel, Mynachnaina Monfils, and Ashlynne Johnson, all of Nandua Middle School.

In the grades 10–12 division, first place went to Justus Scholz of Broadwater Academy. Second place went to Alejandra Zarate-Perez of Nandua High School, and third place went to Vanessa Lopez-Morales of Nandua High School. Caleb Dail, a homeschool student, received honorable mention.

The student artwork will be featured during the Onancock Sails Forward Art Show on the Lawn at historic Ker Place on Saturday, June 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The exhibition is part of the Eastern Shore’s participation in the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Visitors will be able to view and purchase student artwork and cast votes for special People’s Choice awards, including Best in Show and Favorite Artist.

Shore History thanked the participating students, teachers, schools, families, sponsors, and community supporters who helped make the challenge possible.

The public is invited to attend the free exhibition and celebrate the artistic achievements of Eastern Shore students during the Sail250 weekend event.