FLEMINGTON, NJ - An eighth-grader at J.P. Case Middle School has earned an award at the Hunterdon County Teen Arts Festival for a mixed-media piece that caught the attention of judges with its humor and originality.
Abel Ravelo's work, created on cardboard, was praised by judges for its creative use of mixed media, unique humor, and thoughtful commentary on middle school life. Titled "What's it like to be in Middle School today," The piece stood out among entries from across the county.
Ravelo's artwork is currently on display at the Flemington Court House Gallery through May 29.
This year's festival, themed around the nation's 250th anniversary, drew more than 600 students from 14 schools and featured 233 pieces of visual art, 15 vocal music performances, 18 theatre and musical theatre performances, 11 instrumental music performances, six dance performances, seven student films, and a poetry wall featuring six pieces of creative writing.
More than 55 artists and 50 volunteers helped make the event possible.
The festival is coordinated through a partnership among the Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission, the Hunterdon County Library, Hunterdon County 4-H, county schools, and local nonprofit arts organizations.
Open to students ages 13 to 19 who attend school in Hunterdon County, the event gives participants a forum to showcase their work and receive feedback from professional artists.
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