WARWICK, RI – In an effort to recognize and encourage artistic talent across high schools in Rhode Island, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today announced the winners of his 2019 High School Arts Competition.  Cosponsored by the RI Art Education Association (RIAEA), the contest features artwork from students hailing from 23 high schools across the state. 

All submitted works of art are currently on display at the Warwick Mall through May 19, when Senator Reed will host a special reception for all participating students, art teachers, school officials, and judges at the Warwick Mall from 6 to 7:30 p.m.  

This year’s winners were chosen by a panel of expert judges that included: David DePetrillo of the Providence Art Club; Marta Martínez of the RI Latino Arts Association; and Judy Salvadore of the Wickford Art Association.

Domingo Pablo Gutierrez, a senior from Mount Pleasant High School, won this year’s top prize with his work “Still Life,” completed with graphite and colored pencil.  His work will be displayed in Senator Reed’s Washington, D.C. office for the next year.

Emma Naughton, a Lincoln High School senior, and Alaina Minarik, a North Kingstown High School sophomore, earned second and third place, respectively.

Naughton’s “Ducks Are Worth Their Weight” was created using charcoal, while Minarik’s “Portrait of a Dog” was done with chalk pastels.  Their artwork will be displayed in Senator Reed’s Cranston and Providence offices, respectively, for the next year.

All three winners will receive a ribbon, a gift certificate from the Warwick Mall, and custom framing of their work from Providence Picture Frame and Dryden Gallery.

“Each year, I’m proud to showcase the creative talents of young Rhode Islanders, as well as the art teachers and mentors who help encourage, inspire, and nurture their artistic gifts,” said Senator Reed.  “The judges had a difficult task in selecting just a few top works, and I want to particularly congratulate Domingo, Emma, and Alaina for winning this year’s competition.  Thank you to all the students and teachers who participated and made this competition a success.”

Honorable mention awards were given to six students: Andrew Flaherty, a senior at La Salle Academy; Brooke Frizzle, a freshman at North Kingstown High School; Kashton Fielding, a junior at Pilgrim High School; Olivia Massotti, a junior at Rocky Hill School; and Jacqueline Pratt and Maggie Rodgers, a junior and senior at South Kingstown High School.

Jonathon Guzman, a senior at Rogers High School, was chosen as the “Senator Reed staff pick” for his work “Newport Bridge.”