The Ozark Mountain Conference is showcasing the exceptional talent of high school artists from across the region as part of its second annual Art Exhibit and Competition. Selected student artwork was on display from April 7 to 17 at the Ozarks Technical Community College Information Commons Building in Springfield, where it was judged by esteemed area art professionals.
Participating high schools included West Plains, Carl Junction, Bolivar, Branson, Hillcrest, Logan-Rogersville and Marshfield. Each institution selected up to 30 outstanding pieces to compete in a variety of 2D and 3D categories.
West Plains students earned ribbons across several categories. Emily Ritter took first place in graphite and first place in mixed media drawing. Ocyrus Godina won first place in 2D mixed media and second place in 3D design. Brylie Orsborn placed second in colored pencil and received an honorable mention in 3D design.
Additionally, Lyla Kelly placed second in charcoal. The team of Cora Bryce, Bryson Kittrell, Godina and Ritter took second place in the group project category. Third-place honors went to June Woods in graphite, Melak Tekle in ink and markers drawing, and Alexis Cruz Martinez in printmaking. Gisheilla Adam also received an honorable mention in printmaking.
The exhibition will culminate in a closing reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Jared Family Atrium, 1001 E. Chestnut Expressway in Springfield. During the event, awards will be announced and students will have the opportunity to celebrate their achievements. Refreshments will be provided and a live performance will be given by the Ozarks Tech Jazz Combo.
For more information, contact West Plains High School art teachers Audrey Scott at audrey.scott@zizzers.org or Jaime Pendergrass at jaime.pendergrass@zizzers.org.
