We’ll step Off the Field to take a closer look at some of the Republic students who are competing in non-sports activities. Our report is brought to you by State Farm Agent Sarah Rader. Talk to her about how you can save money by combining your home and auto insurance.
Photos courtesy Holly Goodwin
Three high school students and one teacher had artwork selected to be in the MSU Exhibition Gallery in Downtown Springfield’s First Friday Art Walk in November. In order for students to have a chance to exhibit their artwork, a teacher must first have one of two possible entries accepted to the gallery. Ms. Holly Goodwin submitted two pieces: Molecular Raven and Molecular Koi Fish. Both of her pieces were accepted.
“I was incredibly excited when I got the email about having both of my pieces chosen for the exhibition…” says Goodwin. She says she decided to take the top three pieces of art entered by students she instructed with the highest ribbons from the COC Art Conference, who all happen to be in her Art Portfolio class this year.
Senior Emily Hazlett earned a first place ribbon for her Yo-Yo Chandelier Necklace, a piece inspired by a bag from an antique store with circle-shaped yo-yos for quilting, shells from a broken necklace, and wire.
“I knew that I was going to make jewelry for the competition last year…I decided to make a necklace because I love necklaces. To be honest, there is no meaning behind the necklace. I just made it for fun.”
Junior Lyle Chafa placed second for his I’m Starving sculpture, which was also inspired by objects found at an antique store. Goodwin says that Chafa is passionate about using his art to bring social awareness to certain issues.
“…Basically, I collaged vintage green stamps onto fast food containers as a commentary on poverty in America. I made it last year, and Ms. Goodwin selected the idea!” explains Chafa.
Senior Hunter Woodring earned third for her Scattered Brain Portrait, an acrylic painting that illustrates the feelings our brains experience on a daily basis.
Goodwin says that she was very proud that her accomplishments with her personal artwork allowed her three students to show their pieces alongside hers. “It is always so rewarding for teachers to have expertise in their specialized field and be rewarded and acknowledged for it. I also appreciate that I am setting an example for my art students by continuing to pursue new art forms and create artwork that is meaningful to me while still teaching,” explains Goodwin. “My students were also incredibly shocked and surprised that their artwork was chosen. It was so incredible to see the pride of their achievement on their faces.”
You can see more of Goodwin’s work, including the illustrations selected for the MSU Exhibition Gallery, at her website.