In late fall 2021, shortly after the Kingsville Lions Club Environment Committee decided to organize an art contest for local students, committee member Lion Joe Gibson happened upon an international competition which originated in Spain in 2019.
This provided an excellent template for the eventual contest structure.
When the Lions Environment Committee approached Christine Goodchild, head of the Department of Arts and Humanities at Kingsville District High School, she readily embraced the art competition concept.
Once all the details were worked out, the Kingsville Lions Board of Directors gave their approval, as did the high school principal Mr. Bill Toews.
In early February, 2022 the competition launched with the theme, “Climate Change: Solutions.” Students from grades 9 through 12 were invited to enter.
Several teachers were inspired to incorporate the theme within their curriculum subjects, including Art, Civics, Science and English. Some students opted to participate independently. Over 160 students became involved in creating artwork.
By the contest submission day of March 22, 2022 seventy-seven students formally entered their art pieces for judging by internationally renowned artist Ronald Suchiu.
The original prize board of $2000 was raised through generous donations from friends of Kingsville Lions Club. When it grew to $2900, Lions were delighted to add another award category.
Awards were presented most fittingly on Earth Day, April 22.
Congratulations to the following winners who each received a framed Achievement Certificate and cash award:
The Grand Champion, Madeline Waldon, Gr. 12, was presented her award by Lion Joe Gibson on behalf of our contest judge, Ronald Suchiu.
First Runner-up: Vanessa Andrade, Gr. 11, received her award from Mayor Nelson Santos.
Second runner-up: Lily Holmes, Gr.10, was presented her award by Kingsville Lions Club, Immediate Past President, Joan Cope.
Three Honourable Mentions went to Felicia Vickery, Gr.10, Grace Anzovino, Gr. 10 and Olivia Gabriele, Gr.11.
Each received their prizes, presented by Christine Goodchild, Department Head of KDHS Arts and Humanities.
Student artworks were top-notch, with an abundance of amazing artistic talent.
~ Written by Lion Joan Cope
Photos courtesy of Kingsville Lions Club
we are so proud of these students
Way to go KDHS students – for taking action for climate empowerment. Your art pieces were incredible, well thought out in the messages conveyed and creative to the max on seeking Solutions for Climate Change.