The artistic talents of Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District students have once again captured the spotlight at the annual Hi/Mid Art Show hosted by the Tubac Center of the Arts.
The Hi/Mid Art Show is known for celebrating emerging talent and innovative artwork from students along the I-19 corridor including Nogales, Sahuarita, and Rio Rico.
From captivating paintings to mesmerizing sculptures, SCV35 students showcased a diverse range of artistic expressions. Rio Rico High School students won three of the eight awards presented that evening.
Junior Anabelle Mendoza received the Innovation Award for her sculpture, "Pushing Daisies." The Special Achievement Award was presented to junior Sophia Jaramillo for her vase, the "Blue Path of Fortune.” The evening’s top prize, a $3,500 scholarship was presented to senior Paulina Fontes for her painting "Break Me Open" which depicted two hands breaking open a pomegranate.
In addition to student accolades, the teachers received appreciation for their commitment to fostering artistic excellence. Art teachers from every school were in attendance in support of students. As patrons stopped to admire the art, teachers could be overheard explaining the work and commitment that went into each one.
“It was the first time my two students had used their respective mediums (oil pastel, charcoal) on such a large piece. Each piece took more than 15 hours to create,” said Mountain View Elementary teacher Mark Dittmar, who had two fourth-grade students contribute pieces to the show.
“I want to say that I am really proud of Jenna Munoz and Paulina Fontes who worked diligently on their pieces. Even though they had limited time between classes, they were able to take on the project and work to the end. Sophia Jaramillo demonstrated expert craftsmanship in her work with the vase. She worked even when she was tired or sleepy. Nothing stopped her. Anabelle demonstrated advanced skills and creativity on her sculpture,” Miguel Grijalva, RRHS Art Teacher