Downers Grove South Students Gain National Recognition at 2023 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards!
The Downers Grove South Community would like to congratulate two of our student artists, Catherine Liceaga and Alexi Newsome. Both of these students won NATIONAL recognition for their artwork during the prestigious 2023 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards!
To give you an idea of this honor, our Suburban Chicago Region had 2,347 submissions. Only 25 of these submissions went on to win a national award. Last year, there were over 300,000 national art and writing submissions. Less than 10% of those submissions won national medals. National award winners will be recognized at Carnegie Hall in New York City on June 8, 2023, with a ceremony with gold medalists receiving an invitation to the event.
Alexi Newsome received a National Silver Medal for her piece “Kidnapped.”
“Alexi always works so hard on her artworks. She puts a lot of thought into each piece, both conceptually and from a technical point of view. This drawing shows of both of those skill sets, I’m so proud of her,” Drawing and Painting teacher Katherine O’Truk said.
Catherine Liceaga won the National Gold Medal for her work entitled “Num Bun.”
“Catherine has a very special talent when it comes to organization and composition of her work. She is extremely creative, and that comes out when she photographs. Catherine’s concepts are very carefully thought out and intentional; this art piece showcases all of her skills and imagination,” said Sam Wascher, Photography and Computer Art teacher.
“This is not only an honor to our outstanding students, it's a reminder of how much the Arts are valued in our district, and the positive outcomes that those commitments bring to all of our students,” said Fine Arts Department Chairperson, Jerry Lowrey.
Principal Arwen Lyp shared, “I could not be more proud of Catherine and Alexi and so happy to see their talents recognized at a national level. I also want to thank our art teachers for providing the necessary support that allows our students to achieve at the highest levels possible.”
This is truly amazing and serves as testament to the hard work and dedication of these student artists.We are all so proud of you and all of your hard work and dedication to the arts. On behalf of the entire District 99 community, we congratulate Catherine and Alexi.
