Student-artist's work snags the national spotlight

By Shawna Ward
Richwood High School

A Richwood High School senior's artwork will travel to the capital of the United States, where it will be displayed with art by other student-artists from across the nation.

Karri Roberts's pencil rendering "Hands" was chosen to represent West Virginia at the national exhibit from entries in the West Virginia Youth Art Month exhibit at the Cultural Center in the state Capitol Complex.

Robert's drawing will be shipped directly to the office of U.S. Rep. Alan Mollohan, D-W.Va., after the Cultural Center exhibit closes on April 15.

Art instructors Rocco Milanese of Richwood High and Carl O'Dell of Richwood Junior High selected Roberts's drawing to send to the Cultural Center.

"I had narrowed my selection down to five for the state exhibit, and Carl O'Dell felt this was the strongest piece," Milanese said. " 'Hands'" was not my top choice, but Carl has dealt with these exhibits much more then I have."

"The judges usually look for something that is expressive and shows feeling," O'Dell said, "so I thought this piece would have the best chance of winning an award."

Roberts said the news about her artwork shocked her. "I didn't think I would win anything with that drawing," she said.

Roberts is the second Richwood High student to receive this recognition. Six years ago, Luke Hudak became the first to be included in a national exhibition. Milanese said this is currently the top honor a high school art student can receive.