Valley Stream 24 School District Shines at The Olympics of Visual Arts

Sixth-grade students in the Valley Stream 24 School District’s Challenge Program achieved remarkable success at the New York State Art Teachers Association’s Olympics of the Visual Arts in Saratoga Springs, earning awards in six creative categories.

Throughout the school year, students collaborated on artistic challenges in photography, graphic design, painting, fashion, illustration, and architecture. Each team produced a comprehensive portfolio documenting their research and creative processes. These portfolios highlighted the students’ historical analysis, decision-making, problem-solving abilities, and imaginative thinking.

The Challenge students, accompanied by teacher Ms. Risa Miller and art educators Ms. Jessica Rosenthal, Ms. Nicole Barci, and Ms. Leighanne Jaronczyk, presented their projects at the competition. Students were evaluated on both long-term solutions and spontaneous challenges, as well as the depth and quality of their portfolios. The event brought together middle school students from 32 districts across New York State and was judged by more than 50 professionals—including artists, architects, designers, educators, and industry leaders.

"I believe the students' success was a result of interviews with artists and the use of primary resources, which are invaluable tools for students seeking to enhance their creativity in artistic endeavors and research,” said Challenge Program Teacher Risa Miller. “Engaging in conversations with artists allows students to gain insights into the creative processes, motivations, and challenges faced by professionals in the field.”

“These firsthand accounts can inspire students to explore new techniques and perspectives in their own work,” Ms. Miller continued. “Additionally, primary resources, such as sketches and drafts, offer authentic examples of artistic evolution and thought processes. By analyzing these materials, students can develop a deeper understanding of the artistic journey, ultimately fostering their own creativity and encouraging innovative approaches to their projects."

Award-Winning Projects from Valley Stream 24:

• Robert W. Carbonaro School students Justin B., Matteo B., Maurice D., and Santiago Z. earned first place in painting for their piece “Palette of Passions: A Journey Through Pride and Shame.” This diptych, inspired by artists Keith Haring, Clay Brown, Jacob Skornik, and Robert Longo, expressed emotional complexity through color and form. Poetry surrounding the artwork, influenced by Louise Sloane, deepened the impact of the visual narrative.
• William L. Buck students Brandon G. and Jaiden S. earned second place in photography for their project “Collapsing Depth.” Their illusionary approach flattened the visual space, creating the impression of a two-dimensional painting—a technique inspired by Alexa Meade that blurs the lines between reality and imagination.
• Robert W. Carbonaro students Alesandra P., Vanessa H., and Viktoria S. took third place in fashion design for “Bound in Beauty,” a gown created entirely from paper and inspired by Gilded Age fashion. Reflecting on the physical and symbolic restrictions faced by women during that era, the students’ design honored the pursuit of bodily autonomy. The group had the unique opportunity to interview Emmy Award-winning costume designer Kasia Walicka-Maimone, known for her work on The Gilded Age (HBO).
• William L. Buck students Jake M., Elias R., and Eric L. received third place in illustration for “The Transformation: Playful to Perilous,” inspired by an excerpt from The Gift by Cecelia Ahern. Drawing on the influences of Chellis Baird, Louise Sloane, Katsushika Hokusai, and Nobuhiro Nakanishi, their work vividly captured the ocean’s shifting temperament.
• Brooklyn Avenue students Xavier J. and Thomas A. competed in the Graphic Design category with their project “The Flavor of Harmony,” creating a promotional beverage package and logo using Procreate. Their design was inspired by digital artist Jen Aranyi.
• Michelle C. and Ethan R., also from Brooklyn Avenue School, presented their architectural design “The Celestial Vault”—a hidden amusement park celebrating the idea that art should be accessible beyond museum walls. Their inspiration came from the Luna Luna amusement park in Hamburg, Germany (1987), the first-ever art amusement park.

The Valley Stream 24 School District proudly congratulates all of the students who competed and celebrates the incredible accomplishments of those who earned awards at this prestigious statewide event.

For more information about Valley Stream 24, please visit the District’s website at https://valleystreamschooldistrict24.org and ‘like’ our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/VS24SchoolDistrict #MakeTheConnection #VS24 #InnovatingOurFuture