Competing in the ¨Battle of the Flowers” art competition, three students placed and even won against other artists city-wide. Sophomores Fabiana Solano and Molly Small won first and third place, while freshman Estelle Vargas placed in the top 30. Solano and Small won not only recognition, but also cash prizes for themselves and the art department.
“I was not expecting to win, mostly because I thought my piece didn’t have enough detail and wasn’t that realistic, but I’m really happy that I did win,” Solano said.
Solano’s first place got her a $750 cash prize, as well as $2,500 for the art department. Small’s third place awarded her with a $350 cash prize and $1,000 for the art department.
“Luckily, I was able to raise money for the art department, so we can buy new materials, we can maybe buy new supplies for next year and this year,” Solano said.
Solano’s winnings didn’t come for free. She worked hard on her piece that will be featured in the Battle of the Flowers program and parade.
“I spent around two weeks on it,” Solano said. “I did it over winter break. I spent like one hour on it each day until I finished it. The contest started I think, mid-fall; it just ended.”
With the dedication Solano put in, she had words of inspiration for other young artists looking to jump into the world of competitions.
“I will continue my art and also go into other contests in the future,” Solano said. “I wanna tell people to do it, because you could win like I did or you could place in it and you’ll feel like you accomplished something.”
Fabiana Solano, first place
Molly Small, third place
Estelle Vargas, top 30
