Tween Artist is Also a Boy Scout and Good Student

Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Tommy Diaz-Piedra, 11, recent graduate of

Accomplishment: This Washington Township resident, who will start classes as a sixth-grader at the next week, enjoys creating artwork. He draws, paints and does sculpture work and cartooning and says he really likes how creative he can be. He attends Artistic Expressions art camp in the summer where he hones his cartooning skills. He hopes to make that a career some day.

Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: Tommy does more than art. He recently bridged from Cub to Boy Scouts and enjoys taking trips and hikes with his troop. He is also a good student, receiving high marks from his teachers.

Q&A with Tommy:

1. When did you start creating artwork? What do you like best about doing it? Do you have a favorite medium?
   I started creating artwork around the age of 6. I guess when you first start art in school. What I like best about art is that it's fun, and you can never do it wrong. Art is all about how you feel and self expression. My favorite medium in art is done mostly in pencil and ink.
   
   
2. What is Artistic Expressions art camp like? How many kids attend? Where is it?
   Artistic Expression art camp is fun and exciting. You create cartoon art every day. My class has about 15 students in it. It's located in Upper Saddle River.
   
   
3. You recently went from being a Cub Scout to a Boy Scout. What kinds of activities do you participate in with your troop? What do you like best about the scouts?
   I like scouts. I mainly liked the trips we went on and some of the hikes. Scouts gives you an appreciation for the outdoors and helps you prepare for everyday life happenings.
   
   
4. You're a good student. How do you stay focused on your schoolwork while also participating in other activities?
   I try to balance my schoolwork. I do it right after school, so the rest of my day can be filled with things I like to do.
   
   
5. What do you want to do when you grow up?
   I would love to be a cartoonist when I grow up.