Westwood Regional School District is introducing a new art contest for grades K-12 called Neighborhood Expressions. Students are invited to create an original piece of artwork that reflects their hometown using any medium desired: photography, painting, drawing, digital art, etc. Submissions are due by January 10.
The prompt is to “create a piece of artwork that reflects on your neighborhood/ community.” The district is asking students to consider what they love, their favorite things to do, their favorite places nearby, and what they notice about Westwood or Washington Township that others may not while designing.
Pam Duffus, an art teacher at the high school says the prompt, “gets people to connect with things that are right where they live and see the beauty of what’s near us. They can be inspired by just next door.”
There will be a winner for each of the six schools in the district. This contest occurs twice a year, and the winners receive prizes from companies that are sponsoring the event. There are thirteen sponsors, some of which are Conrad’s, Tons of Toys, and the Gem Mine, all popular attractions in Westwood town.
They are still seeking sponsors for the event since a few more slots are currently open. Companies in town could provide rewards to the winners and they’ll get to have a say in who wins the contest for each grade. Sponsors will receive posters of the winning artwork to display at their location. The Westwood TV Network will also give a shout-out to all organizations that choose to sponsor the art contest.
Mia Napolitano, a sophomore at Westwood High School participating in the contest says, “I think this contest is more unique than others since kids can make something personal to their community.”
The art department in the Westwood District consists of eight teachers. Each one is responsible for keeping this tradition going over the years. Daily, they encourage their students to submit their contest submissions directly to them, fitting the 8” x 10”, 9” x 12”, or 11” x 14” size requirements.
Ultimately, the goal of these artworks is for students to build our community and pride through their unique creativity. Thanks to lovely art teachers, Washington Township and Westwood should feel a sense of unity this upcoming season.