We may have some future Monets and Picassos on our hands! TRS students recently participated in the MAIS District Art Fair and several walked away having earned awards. Their artwork was appeared alongside their peers from other elite, independent schools in our area, including St. Andrew's, Jackson Academy, Christ Covenant School, Madison Ridgeland Academy, and First Presbyterian Day School.

At TRS, we value the importance of art education and believe it is essential for our students' overall development. Our art program is designed to inspire self-expression and foster a love for the arts, all while pointing toward our Creator and the diversity of beauty He has blessed us with in creation.

TRS Art Teacher Mrs. Claire Howell expressed that the best way for her to prepare students this year was the opposite of what you might expect going into a competition. “I actually don’t tell them we’re doing the competition, although they know to expect it,” she said. “That way, they’re focused on enjoying the projects along the way and using their creativity instead of stressing about if they’ll be featured. It’s wonderful exposure for the students, but whether they place or not, everyone gets to win because they get to express themselves artistically.”

Mrs. Moore, Dean of Academics, spoke about the importance of art education at TRS and the positive impact it can have on our students. "Art education is essential to a well-rounded curriculum. It teaches students to think creatively and problem-solve in ways that other academic subjects cannot. The Art Fair was a fantastic opportunity for our students to share their talents with the community and with peers from the surrounding area.”

Head of School, Mr. Menogan, also commented on the student’s hard work and achievements. "We are so proud of our students for their participation in the District Art Fair. Many of them showed a level of God-given skill and creativity beyond their years, and we will continue to support our students' artistic endeavors in the future.”

“One of the biggest takeaways every year is seeing those couple of students win awards that didn’t necessarily think they were artistic or had the talent to place,” Mrs. Howell said. “It’s a huge boost to their self confidence and pride in their abilities, and even more meaningful than the awards.”

Congratulations to these TRS Student Winners at the MAIS District Art Fair!

K-4
1st Place - Ruthie Owens, Mixed Media (Watercolor & Oil Pastel)

First Grade
1st Place - Wisdom Eke, Painting

Second Grade
1st Place - Jake Bland, Mixed Media (Collage & Colored Pencil)

Fifth Grade
2nd Place - Ava Brantley, Painting

Sixth Grade
2nd Place - Tyli Pace, Single Media (Oil Pastel)