Young Talent Takes Over at Carpe Artista's Student Art Show

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Carpe Artista, our hometown hero for arts education, hosted a Student Art Reception for its Juried Student Exhibition on April 11, and the vibe was nothing short of magical! Trellis & Vine was buzzing with energy as friends, family, teachers, and art lovers gathered to admire a curated collection of 97 pieces of student artwork.

The show was juried by a dream team of local creatives—Ginny Togrye, Kara Kemp, and Eric Snyder—and curated by the talented Madison Pantuso. After carefully reviewing each piece, they handed out awards to exceptional students in various age categories.

🎉 Top honors:

• 🏆 Best in Show: Kaydence Barnett for Weight of Devotion
• 🖌️ High School Award of Excellence: Sebastian Portillo Wilches for Let the Light Exist in You
• 🎨 Middle School Award of Excellence: Amaia Acuna Chaves for Radiant
• 🍔 Elementary Award of Excellence: Jenelle Liles-Chareunsouk for B-B-B-Burger!
• 🧱 Honorable Mention (3D Sculpture): Mairin Yarbrough for Pandora
• 🖼️ Honorable Mention (2D Art): Giselle Lara Jenson for Adria!

Carpe Artista founder Ron Alley summed it up perfectly:

“It was a wonderful evening of inspiration and celebration. We’re so proud of the talent in Rutherford County.”

Huge thanks to Trellis & Vine for hosting the event and creating a space where young artists can feel celebrated. Their mission to cultivate and support local creatives is something we’re lucky to have right here in Smyrna.