The LaBelle High School’s(LHS) Spring Arts Festival, held last Thursday, March 21, featured the brilliantly painted and delicately crafted art, in as many different mediums and subjects as there were students. The gym was filled with displays of the creative endeavors from each school, as the enthusiastic teachers looked on proudly.

Judges from the Barron Park House Gallery descended upon each display, appreciating each piece for its originality, skill, technique, and beauty. From boxes of donuts, colored pencil drawings, quirky-but-functional pottery, to folded-paper fish, African-style masks, and the always popular architecturally-styled noodle sculptures, it was clear that these artsy students, and the teachers that inspire them, had been hard at work.

In the high school division, AP Art student Kristina Noguez had many exciting entries, but her golden scorpion sculpture caught the judges eye, and earned her a blue ribbon. High School potter, Diana Guerrero, won a first place ribbon for her beautifully crafted bamboo cups. “Where is My Mind”, a funky collage by Melissa Raya, also won first place. Gywnn Skinner won first for her somewhat dark but beautiful untitled charcoal work, and the uniquely intense charcoal drawing titled “Gramps” by Johnathan Rodriguez, received a second place ribbon. It was a difficult decision all around for the judges, and while several other students won ribbons for their creative skills, it was clear that everyone here was a winner. Art from these students will be featured in a month long exhibit, throughout May, at the Barron Park House Gallery. You won’t want to miss it! Come out and show you support for LaBelle’s budding young artists.

The Spring Arts Festival was also serenaded by the sweet sounds of the music departments from LES, LMS, and LHS. Everyone did a wonderful job, and the festival was wonderful. Great job LaBelle students and teachers!