EVERETT, MAY 6: Schack Art Center is proud to celebrate a group of young, local artists who have received national recognition in the prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The nation’s longest running and most distinguished program recognizing creative achievement among young students in grades 7–12. Founded in 1923 by Maurice R. “Robbie” Robinson, the program began by honoring young writers and added art categories in 1927.
Each year, students first earn regional honors before advancing to national adjudication, where only the top works from across the country receive medals and special awards. This year, students represented through Schack Art Center’s regional program earned eight nationally recognized works across six participants, spanning grades 8 through 12.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards have long recognized some of the nation’s most celebrated creative talents, including generations of artists, writers, and innovators. For these students, national honors place them among the best young artists in the country. Having other peers among them who win at such a level sets this group apart in their successes.
Chloe Kim, a grade 11 student, received a Gold Medal and the distinguished American Visions Award for her drawing, After the Orders, along with two additional Silver Medals for her painting entries.
“Most of my motivation behind my art was to express my state of mind as a junior in high school,” Kim said.
“Drawing became both a therapeutic outlet and a way to preserve a moment I can return to, especially during times that felt overwhelming. When my artwork was recognized with a national award, it felt surreal, especially at a time when I felt academically overwhelmed, because it showed me that what I love most was still seen and valued.”
Jing Zhang, an 8th grader from Brier Terrace Middle School, earned a Silver Medal for her comic art piece, The 21st Century Brains, in her first year participating.
“As a first-year participant in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the entire experience has been incredible,” Zhang said. “It is fascinating to see the creativity and depth of arts by other students my age! Being recognized at the national level alongside such talented peers is a huge honor, and it gave me a new understanding of how art can be performed in many ways: it’s not just skills but expressing our feelings on canvas. I can’t wait to push my boundaries of creativity and participate again next year!”
Kalia Ratliff, a grade 12 student at Glacier Peak High School, was honored for her photograph, Lagoon Paradise, capturing a fleeting and dramatic moment of a walrus in motion.
“I love capturing parts of photography that often feel unseen,” Ratliff said. “This image came from a split- second detail, the water droplets in the air, that turned into something really special. I’m incredibly proud of how it transformed such a small moment into something powerful. Being recognized for my photography is one of the biggest honors of my senior year.”
Together, these students exemplify the creativity, dedication, and vision fostered through Schack Art Center’s programs. Their achievements not only highlight individual talent but also reflect the strength of the community where young artists are inspired by one another to reach new heights.
