In a celebration of creativity and history, the Kaysville Fruit Heights Museum of History and Arts recently hosted a school art contest in conjunction with the Bicentennial Art 1976 Historical Exhibit Redux. Among the participating schools, Davis High School emerged as a beacon of creativity, infusing their artworks with a blend of historical reverence and contemporary flair. The contest, which culminated in an award ceremony on March 14, showcased a diverse array of artworks, each offering a unique perspective on Utah’s storied past.

Grading criteria for the competition were rigorous, with students evaluated on various elements including originality, creativity, technical skill, and composition. Judges also took into account the use of color or value, thematic resonance, emotional impact, and overall impression, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of each artwork’s merits. The overarching theme of the contest was Views of the Past. Students were asked to paint their ancestors or some local historical moment.

Yasmine Krunkel, emerged as the winner of the first-place prize of $500 and an honorable mention, capturing hearts with her unique blend of mediums and poignant storytelling. Krunkel’s winning piece, a portrait created with watercolors and coffee stains, struck a chord with judges and spectators alike. But it wasn’t just the technical skill that impressed; it was the narrative woven into the canvas. Krunkel revealed that her inspiration stemmed from old photographs of her great grandparents.

 “It’s really exciting,” she said. “This is the first time I’ve received an award or gotten money for my artwork. It’s so rewarding to receive acknowledgment for these two pieces. These two pieces took… my whole soul.” 

Taking home the second-place prize of $300 was Halle Crandall, whose artwork captivated audiences with its imaginative interpretation of Utah’s historical landscape. The painting featured Crandall’s great-grandfather Jack Crandall, who helped build Davis County roads. Crandall’s composition skillfully blended elements of nostalgia and innovation, offering a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Securing the third-place prize of $200 was Sabrina Jackson, whose artwork stood out for its striking use of color and evocative imagery. 

“This is a painting of my great-great grandpa,” Jackson wrote about the piece. “He was the first employee of the Utah State Fish and Game Commission. He helped build the first fish and game pond. He was the superintendent and drove the first car in Utah for the hatchery. Its contributions helped spread fish across Utah.”

The contest not only provided students with a platform to showcase their talents but also served as a testament to the enduring power of art to illuminate and inspire. By engaging with themes of heritage and legacy, participants were able to forge meaningful connections with the past while charting a course toward the future.

As the event came to a close, it was evident that the spirit of creativity and innovation would continue to thrive in the hearts and minds of the next generation of artists. With their remarkable talents on full display, the students of Davis High School have left an indelible mark on the canvas of history, reminding us all of the transformative power of art.