Field Notes

The annual Art Contest, hosted by the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams invites 4-12th grade students throughout Kosciusko County to submit their creative depictions of our beautiful local waterways. This year’s theme was, “Wonders of the Water” – and over 200 students participated, each piece bringing its own “wow” factor.

We are excited to announce the winners of this year’s art contest. Each piece is evaluated based on creativity, artistic merit, and theme depiction. Winning artwork will be displayed at The Alley in downtown Warsaw, and the South Whitley Community Public Library, as well as placed in an art magazine, created by the Lilly Center and printed onto calendars, cards and bookmarks. Click on each header to see who won 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, plus their artwork!

In addition to artwork being displayed and featured in an art magazine, winners receive $100 for 1st place, $75 for 2nd place, and $50 for 3rd place.

Estelle Jaumard, creator of “Blue Heron” and the 1st place winner of the 7/8th grade division, shared the inspiration behind her artwork: “Whenever I am at a lake, whether it be Pike or Winona, I am always on the lookout for cranes or herons. Cranes and herons are fascinating creatures, and I enjoy taking pictures of them. When I take pictures, I try different perspectives to portray the beauty of the creatures. When I was deciding what medium to use, I wanted something that would enhance the details of the Blue Heron, so I used drawing pencils.”

The art contest is just one of four educational programs offered by the Lilly Center for K-12 students. Alongside it, Lake Adventure Day, Classroom Lake Experience, and destination field trips provide hands-on opportunities for students to connect with and learn about the natural environment.

A special thanks to the City of Warsaw Stormwater Utility for sponsoring this year’s art contest!