2022 ART CONTEST

The Twin City Area Optimist Club Art Contest took place on Sunday, November 14, 2021 at Elks Lodge 1721 in Festus. The annual event had 299 entries with 199 student artists exhibiting artwork. The students and their art were represented by the following schools in Jefferson County: Festus High School, De Soto High School, De Soto Junior High School, Herculaneum High School, Senn-Thomas Middle School, Hillsboro Junior High School, Crystal City High School and Jefferson R-VII. Two entries were submitted by homeschooled students. Entries were showcased in art categories, photography and three-dimensional art.

Best of Show winner was Katie Deevers, Jefferson R-VII, with her entry “Grateful.” First place winners in three art categories were: Art – Ages 12-13 Macie Tomlinson, De Soto Junior High School, with her entry “American Blood”, Art – Ages 14-15 Sophia Leiner, Crystal City High School, with her entry “Fire and Ice” and Art-Ages 16-19 Bryce Shepard, Jefferson R-VII, with his entry “Mushroom Forest.” Taking first place in photography was Savannah Brown of Jefferson R-VII, with her photo “Coming Down the

Line.” Three-dimensional art first place winner was Ella Shy, Festus High School, with her entry “Recycled Material Dog Sculpture.”

The Twin City Area Optimist Club strives to “bring out the best in kids” with events such as the art contest that encourages Jefferson County youth to grow in confidence and self-esteem.

Janet Mace
Art Contest Chairperson