Emily Goldbery ’12
Web News Editor
Staples’ many talented art students have a chance to display their work and win prizes as well as the student art contest Toquet Hall will be holding May 17-31.
The contest follows Toquet’s mission to provide a way for teens to share their creativity. Toquet Hall Director Kevin Godburn said, “For the community, I think anytime we have a chance to highlight the creative work of teens is great. This show provides another vehicle to do that.”
Students from Staples, Weston High School, and Greens Farms Academy can submit pieces under four categories: drawing, painting, photography, and miscellaneous which includes sculpture, graphic design, silk screen, etc. Each student may submit a total of four pieces of art.
Prizes will be awarded for winners in each category. Prizes including cash and gift cards to Max’s Art Supply and B&H Photo will be awarded. Additionally, winners ha their artwork displayed at the Downtown Merchants Association “Art by Local” art show in Sconset Square on May 23rd.
Staples graduate, Katie Brag ’07 originally started the art show in 2003. Brag had been involved in Toquet Hall as a volunteer and, in Toquet Hall as a volunteer and, “wanted to do something true to her, and bring something different to Toquet,” her younger sister, Annie Brag ’10 said.
The younger Brag took on the art contest after her sister graduated. She chose to continue the event because she values being able to display her creativity. “I think it’s cool for kids our age to show their work to the school and to the community,” said Brag.
On average, approximately 100 students submit pieces to Toquet’s art contest each year. Staples art teacher Angela Simpson is a supporter of the contest, and encourages her students to enter their work. “With a wide variety of categories, the contest is very inclusive,” said Simpson.
With a plethora of interesting and intriguing pieces submitted each year, Simpson was not able to decide on a favorite piece she’s seen over the years.
Creativity and talent is abundant throughout the various pieces, and Godburn is thankful that so many students have taken the time to create such artwork to enter in the contest. “It has always been positive. We have some tremendously talented and creative artists,” said Godburn.
The annual art contest is something different for Toquet Hall, which is more widely known for its concerts. “It [the contest] has become one of our marquee events each year. We’ve been known for our concert series, but we are really much more than that,” said Godburn. “We try to offer something for all students, whether it’s music, comedy, movies, game tournaments, theater, workshops or a place to share the finished product of their time, energy and creativity.”
