Beacon visual arts showcase celebrates student creativity 

A group of 15 Beacon Middle School students in grades six to eight were recognized and awarded for their outstanding artistic talents. A student-led contest, the inaugural amazing art showcase celebrated creativity and gave young artists an opportunity to shine.

The idea for the event was sparked by a conversation between Beacon art teacher Alexander Louvis and retired Maryland art educator, Margaret Rudt.

Working collaboratively, Louvis and a group of his students developed the contest’s name, outlined the categories of accepted work, and decided how many prizes would be awarded. With a vision to create a meaningful and developmentally enriching experience, the contest aimed to help middle schoolers express themselves and gain recognition for their artistic skills and passions.

“This showcase was about more than just displaying artwork,” said Louvis. “It gave students the chance to find their creative voices and feel proud of what they can do. Watching them take ownership of the process, from naming the contest to creating their pieces, was incredibly inspiring.”

Thanks to Rudt’s efforts, prize funding was secured through the generosity of local Sussex County residents. She also assembled a panel of three qualified volunteer judges with diverse backgrounds in the arts. “Middle school is such a formative time, and giving students an outlet to express themselves artistically is so important,” said Rudt. “It was wonderful to see the community come together to support young artists and help bring this vision to life.”

A total of 30 students entered the contest, creating artwork both in class and at home based on Louvis’ lessons and activities. Each student was also required to submit an artist statement explaining how each piece met the contest’s three overall criteria of originality and creativity, use of elements of art and principals of design, and skill and craftsmanship.

Judges carefully reviewed each entry and artist statement, engaging in thoughtful discussion before selecting the winners. The showcase not only highlighted student talent but also underscored the power of community collaboration and arts education. The culmination of the project took place on May 19, when students and their families were invited to Beacon for a short ceremony, honoring the students’ work.

Eighth-grade art showcase winners were Avery Fay, first-place;  Erica Hippolyte, second-place; Noah Gibbs, third-place; with honorable mention going to Rori Ruark and Mackenzie Mears.

Seventh-grade art showcase winners were Cephei Hareland, first-place; Chloe Yeung, second-place; Declan Durand, third-place; and Jackson Bolling and Harper Brayman-Wetherhold, honorable mention.

Sixth-grade winners were Melissa Cotoc-Sinquina, first-place’ Colton Wilson, second-place; and Deko Duggan Pulver, third-place; with honorable mentions going to Armanti Wilson and Charlotte Marchetti.