Spring is in the air and we’re still cranking out amazing artwork. The Galena High School Art Department is excited to announce our Outstanding March artist!
February Nominees: Ally Farrey, Ellimena Henderson, Catherine Lopez Perez.
Criteria: advanced creativity, high level of interest in art, commitment to skill advancement, and outside-the-box thinking (creativity & problem-solving).
Special thanks to Root Beer Revelry, Galena Roasters, and multiple private donors for this month’s round of gift cards for our nominees. Your donations are appreciated!
Outstanding Artist of March – Ellimena Henderson ’28 – Intro to Art
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Ellimena is bursting with ideas and her artwork reflects this. She already has a very distinct style and it is going to be really fun to see that continue to develop throughout high school. Her use of layers to create complex compositions is remarkable. She is thoughtful, specific, and dedicated to her pieces. Ellimena is an artist and will always be an artist.
Ellimena’s thoughts on all things art:
Why do you think art is important?
I think art is of course a form of self expression, but it is also a lot deeper than that as well. For many artists (including myself) it’s what makes us special, it’s what makes us stand out, and can help you find your voice.
What does art mean to you?
To me, like I said, if I believe it’s what makes me myself and different, I don’t think it makes me better than anyone else, I do think it’s important to who I am, without it I’m just another student.
Why do you make art?
I do believe it’s what helped me figure out who I am as a person, and I still haven’t all the way figured that out, but my art has set me on that path I think. I have kind of figured out by now it’s what I’m good at, and it’s what I’m doing with myself.
What type of art do you like to make?
Generally, I love bright colors and themes, and I always tend to have a sort of layered full look to my work, where I add a lot of things, something I take a lot of pride in is that everything I put in my work has meaning.., things that bring awareness or certain feelings, I love creating expressions, and when I’m able to successfully convey a feeling is when it really feels like a success to me.
How do you plan to incorporate art into your life after high school?
I am hoping to get a further art education, and get into 3D modeling and animation of the 3D and 2D variety, I am planning to get into 2D animation soon actually. I might get into an art college, if I do I will try to get as many scholarships as possible, but I might just get into a trade school, they still cost money but it’s not as extreme.
What is something you wish the outside world knew about high school art classes?
It really saddens me that not all schools have these more creative classes. I think it’s really necessary because a lot of students might not even realize they have talent until they discover this in a school setting, and maybe even start working on it.
Also Nominated – Ally Farrey ’26 – Digital Photography
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Ally loves art and should be in an art class. She has an excellent eye and a strong grasp of composition. An awesome critical thinker, I always look forward to our conversations. Ally’s artwork often highlights her interests and thoughtful ideas. I have been especially impressed with her photography lately and am looking forward to having her in class next year too.
Also Nominated – Catherine Lopez Perez ’26 – Drawing & Painting/3D Art
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Catherine embodies hard work and responsibility. She gives every project her all and I know will produce something strong every time. She is intrinsically motivated and has discovered a passion for art she was not aware she had prior to last year. Catherine is a shining example of a good student that is filled with ideas and creativity. I’m very excited to continue to have her as a student.
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].
