Medina County Art League awards $10,000 in scholarships to student artists

MEDINA — Medina County high school seniors submitted pieces of their art for the chance to receive a scholarship from the Medina County Art League. Student artwork is on display on the third floor of the Medina Library in the B. Smith Gallery until April 4. Scholarships were awarded to select students during a reception on Wednesday. Medina County Art League co-President Linda Long said this year, the organization gave away $10,000 in scholarships, which is a record. Funding for the scholarships comes from art league projects and donations from individuals and businesses. Janet Baran from the art league's scholarship committee said the pieces are judged by three people who collectively have more than 100 years of experience teaching art. The portfolios are laid out without identification of the artist or their school to allow for blind judging. "We had a very difficult time this year," she said. "We had a lot of very close calls. There were hairs splitting from one level to another. I think it's admirable that all of you put your artwork out. It's a very personal thing and to have it judged is even harder to do." The following students were recognized: Cameron Gorog, of Wadsworth, received the best of show scholarship. Rebecca Wesig, of Wadsworth, received the first place scholarship. Ashton Lewis, of Highland, received the second place scholarship. Leah Andrews, of Medina, received the third place scholarship and won library's choice, which was determined by library staff members. Alexis Mutch, of Highland, received an honorable mention scholarship. Natalia Vujas, of Wadsworth, received an honorable mention scholarship. "This is just a really special night for us," Long said. "I look at you guys, and you are the future. It's colorful, and it's wonderful. Thank you for your work in the arts, and we hope we see more of you." Every student who exhibited their work in the scholarship show automatically became a member of the Medina County Art League for the coming year, she said. Members of the organization can attend workshops, be eligible to exhibit at the league's member show and get discounted space at Art in the Park. "Our meetings generally have a speaker who is a professional artist, and you can learn a lot from them," Long said. "You're going to be exposed to a network of artists who will be invaluable to you in terms of mentorship and advice." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.