On Tuesday, March 12, SCTCC recognized the winners of the 75th Anniversary Art Contest with presentation of prizes and a reception.
To celebrate SCTCC’s 75th Anniversary, the event committee wanted to provide an opportunity for the SCTCC community to engage in different ways. The art contest was opened early January with students and employees able to participate using the theme “Celebrate.” Art was due at the end of February, and two days were allowed for in-person and online voting. The community was able to vote during the BrewLäsh fundraiser on Feb. 29.
Thirty pieces of artwork were submitted, both in physical format and digital. More than 200 people voted on the art, with the popular vote signifying the first, second, and third place winners in the student and employee categories. There were also President’s Choice, Multicultural Center Choice, and 75th Anniversary Committee Choice awards.
During the ceremony, President Lori Kloos shared that she was slightly skeptical regarding how many entries might be submitted for the contest since she has no artistic ability herself and hadn’t ever experienced an art contest at SCTCC. She was blown away not only by the number of entries but also by the incredible talent and thought that went into the artwork. It was further affirmation that there are many different ways to create an inclusive sense of belonging, art contests being one of them.
“For 75 years, SCTCC has been providing academic opportunities and creating a sense of belonging for students, employees, and the community. To see a variety of artwork from such a broad representation of our campus community demonstrates the engaged participation of our students, faculty, staff, and community members and reinforces a sense of belonging that enhances student success and ensures sustainability for the next 75 years and beyond. Thank you to everyone who participated, whether an artist or an individual who enjoyed and voted for the submissions, in this exciting event,” said Kloos.
The winners of the art contest are:
Students
- 1st place McKenna Davidson: “Sparks” painting of fireworks
- 2nd place Lillyana Chouinard: “Celebrate 75 Years” digital artwork of the SCTCC entrance
- 3rd place Alexis Venables: “Dreaming of New Horizons” mixed media art
Employees
- 1st place Tori Stowe: “Congrats SCTCC” stained glass art
- 2nd place Micaela Bethke: “Ode to a Pheasant” Textile art
- 3rd place Susan Jordahl: "Minnesota Beauty” photo of Mississippi Headwaters
Presidential Choice
- Student: Alexis Venables: “Dreaming of New Horizons” mixed media art
- Employee: Tori Stowe: “Congrats SCTCC” stained glass art
Multicultural Center Choice
- Student: Jezmyn Rindahl with drawing titled “Joy”
- Employee: Micaela Bethke with “Ode to a Pheasant”
75th Anniversary Committee Choice
- Student: Lillyana Chouinard with “Celebrate SCTCC” digital art
- Employee: Hayley Skoczen with “Have your Cake and Eat it Too” sculpture
Congratulations to all the winners! Some of the artwork will be available for viewing in the Library.
Because of the success of this contest and art show, the committee is looking at making this an annual event.