Just 1 more month of school left and we’re still cranking out amazing artwork. The Galena High School Art Department is excited to announce our Outstanding April artist!
April nominees: Bella Edmonds, Olivia Hillard, Dani Rae Hulscher
Criteria: advanced creativity, high level of interest in art, commitment to skill advancement, and outside-the-box thinking (creativity & problem solving).
Outstanding Artist of April – Dani Rae Hulscher ’26 – Drawing & Painting, 3D Art and Photography
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – Dani’s artwork has a lovely whimsy to it. It is usually cute and always well done. As a student, Dani tends to work quietly and quickly. She is usually ahead on her projects. Often incorporating her love of the outdoors, Dani’s art reflects her interests. She took 3 art classes this school year and will be one of the few GHS students to end up taking every art class offered by the time she graduates. A hard-working and reliable artist, this recognition is very well deserved. It continues to be a joy to have her in the art room.
Dani’s thoughts on all things art:
Why do you think art is important?
I think art is important because it can depict someone’s emotions, show a message, and can just be something that makes someone happy. Art can make a big impact on how people perceive things and can make people connect in many ways. People can make art to show a message about the world or things that need to change in the world.
What does art mean to you?
Art is very important to me. It helps me break away from the stresses in my life. It’s something that I can run to that I know will calm me down. I do art very often, even outside of art class. It overall just makes me happy to create something and I have fun doing it.
Why do you make art?
I make art because it’s one of the things that I love to do. I also make art because it helps me take a break from reality and have a chance to focus on something that I really love. I love to create things out of my imagination and bring them to reality.
What type of art do you like to make?
The type of art that I like to make is probably painting. Painting can be really hard, but it’s fun to push yourself on something you could always get better at. I just love colors and painting really helps with that and it really helps the piece bring out the things that I want to create.
How do you plan to incorporate art into your life after high school?
After high school I plan to keep on painting and making art as a pastime to relax. I won’t go into any careers that involve art, but it makes me happy, so I would keep on painting.
What is something you wish the outside world knew about high school art classes?
Something that I wish the outside world knew about high school art class would be that it is a great place to make friends. In the beginning of the year, I didn’t know much about the people in my class and I didn’t think I would even be talking to them, but I met some really fun and cool people. It makes the setting very fun and easy going. I also wish the outside world could see how no one judges you for the kind of art you make in class. Everyone is very kind to you about your art and it makes you more confident in it. Art class is a place where you can bring out your creative side and have fun while doing it.
Also Nominated – Bella Edmonds ’28 – Intro to Art
Ms. Thraen-Borowski – As soon as Bella showed up in August, I could tell she was an artist. She takes time to develop her ideas, making every project something that is uniquely her own. She won’t be rushed and has high standards for herself. I’m very excited to have her in more art classes as she makes her way through high school. Bella always shows up to class ready to dive in, has a great dry wit, and tons of talent!
Also Nominated – Olivia Hillard ’27 – Drawing & Painting/3D Art
Olivia has really upped her game this year. Her artwork was always well done, but it’s at a whole other level now. Olivia is a very easy student because she uses her time wisely, is filled with ideas, and always gives her all to her artwork. She is very positive and pleasant in class as well. Because she is so reliable and consistent, it was only a matter of time until she was recognized as the class leader that she is. I really hope she continues to take art classes. I’m always excited to see what she creates.
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].
