Artists shine in Madras competition

Sisters High School art students did their school proud at the Central Oregon High School Art Competition last April 22. Fourteen students displayed artwork in the competition held at Madras High School.

Not only did the students display their work, they brought home most of the top prizes, including the Judges Choice Award (Kelcy Blann, Mixed Media), and Students Choice Award (Lily Hicks, Drawing - Pencil).

Each student could enter two pieces of art, and Sisters had entries in nearly every category.

"Sisters definitely had the most art, and we were the only ones to bring (fine art) jewelry," said senior Kelsey White.

While the art was being judged, the students rotated between three activity stations. At one, the students were treated to Native American flute playing, performed by Madras High School students. Another station had digital storytelling, and the third station was in the art room where the students worked collectively on a project that was displayed at the end of the day.

White said it was interesting to see what the other schools presented and to realize anew how strong the Sisters High School art program is.

Mike Baynes teaches these students, and endeavors to give them ample opportunity to develop as artists. Seeing their work on display at a competition was a new experience for some, and the prizes were a sweet bonus.

Senior Kelcy Blann hadn't previously entered a competition, and to take top prize in her category (mixed media) and then to score the Judges Choice was "awesome."

"I was really proud of this piece," she said.

It was a collage - like pop art work, which she finished just days before the event.

Baynes' students have an art display on view at the Sisters Public Library until the end of May. The public is invited to stop in and enjoy the considerable talent of these students.

Results from the Central Oregon High School Art Competition:

Drawing (charcoal/pastel): First - Christina Holler;

Honorable Mention: - Kelsey White;

Drawing (pencil): First - Lily Hicks;

Drawing (pen/ink): First - Drew Herron; Second - Emily Rickards;

Painting (acrylic): Third - Madz Bearzi;

Mixed Media: First - Kelcy Blann;

Ceramics: First - Rachel Sims; Third - Hattie Tehan;

Sculpture: First - Loryn Cummins; Third - Christina Holler;

Jewelry: First - Joe Janego; Second - Ian Stark; Third - Brenna Mooney;

Photography: Third - Drew Herron;

Honorable Mention: Drew Herron;

Judges Choice: Kelcy Blann;

Students Choice: Lily Hicks.