The Galena High School Art Department is excited to announce that Outstanding Pirate Artist of the Month is back! If this first month is any indication, we are in for an exciting year of amazing art. As an added bonus, numerous local businesses have donated gift cards for all nominees. What a generous community we live in. Join us in celebrating the nominees and their skills!
October nominees: Brooke Dittmar, Violet Doyle, and Drew Koenings
Criteria: advanced creativity, high level of interest in art, commitment to skill advancement, and outside-the-box thinking (creativity & problem solving).
Thank you to The Galena Bakehouse and Root Beer Revelry for this month’s gift cards.
Outstanding Artist of the October – Brooke Dittmar ’25
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Throughout her high school career Brooke has proven over and over again that she is a top tier artist. This year, she continues to shine, turning in gorgeous photo after gorgeous photo. Brooke has such a strong understanding of composition. This is something she has developed over hours and hours of unseen practice. This work ethic is evident as her photos come in every week this year. In these photographs, you can see Brooke is taking the time to develop new skills, set up interesting shots, and put the work in. In addition to this effort, her attention to detail truly sets her apart. I am excited that she is being recognized with this honor because it is very deserved. I look forward to being awed by her work long after she graduates from Galena.
Brooke’s thoughts on all things art:
Why do you think art is important? – I think art is important because it is a beautiful way to express yourself. Art has the ability to invoke and portray emotion. I think the messages that art embodies are very impactful and important.
What does art mean to you? – To me, art means creativity, uniqueness, and individuality. People don’t make art that is the same as everyone else. This means advancement and discovery as people create new pieces.
Why do you make art? – I make art to relax and to create something that people enjoy. I find that the process is calming and I love that there are no rules in art.
What type of art do you like to make? – I like to take photos, paint with acrylics, work with clay, and decorate cakes.
How do you plan to incorporate art into your life after high school? – I plan to continue to make art in addition to my plans of going to college and joining the workforce. Art will always be a part of my life.
What is something you wish the outside world knew about high school art classes? – I wish the outside world knew how important art classes are to students. Art class can be an escape from the regular and routine school days. Art gives kids a way to display their thoughts and emotions in a positive way. I believe children benefit greatly from the freedom to create.
Also Nominated – Violet Doyle ’26
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Violet has taken the camera and ran with it this year. I can’t tell you how many times I have turned around at a school function or place other than art class and witnessed her snapping pictures. It is obvious that she truly enjoys taking photos and is interested in developing her skills. It is this curiosity that sets her apart. Violet has a great attitude about every project and also seeks out feedback. These are remarkable qualities in a student. I always look forward to seeing what she turns in and interacting with her because she is full of ideas. It’s going to be awesome to have a front row seat to her artistry all year.
Also Nominated – Drew Koenigs ’26
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Drew’s level of commitment to his art has impressed me since he started taking high school art classes. It is obvious again in Digital Photography. Drew works ahead, he gets up early to catch interesting shots, he asks questions, and he checks in with me to express excitement over pictures he takes on the weekends. It is no surprise that his work is good because Drew puts in the work to be good. He is thoughtful and creative, curious and responsible. I am thrilled to have him in class and witness his artwork, the sky’s the limit.
Congratulations to All the artists!
For any additional info and to find out ways to support this recognition, contact Ms. Irene Thraen-Borowski at [email protected].
