Rowlett Student Wins First Place in Local Student Art Show

SARASOTA — Rowlett Middle Academy students made a strong showing at the opening of Art 4 Change’s inaugural student art exhibition,  May 3 at the Gaze Gallery at Arcos in Sarasota. Among 227 submissions from six local schools, Rowlett student Layla Quesenberry took home both First Place and the People’s Choice Award in the nonprofit’s 2nd Annual “A Better World Through Art” poster contest.

Layla’s winning piece, Love, features hands signing the letters L-O-V-E in American Sign Language. The hands are depicted in various skin tones, with unique features such as tattoos and even one missing a finger, powerfully representing diversity, inclusion, and unity.

Fellow Rowlett student Savannah Toomey also placed, earning Third Place in the contest for the second year in a row.

The show, made possible by a partnership with Creative Liberties, will remain on display throughout May and features student artwork addressing topics such as environmental protection, mental health, equality, and more.

“This amazing organization gives young artists a real platform to share their voice,” said Rowlett art teacher Brittany Braniger. “We couldn’t be prouder of Layla and Savannah for their creativity and dedication.”

For more information or to support future student exhibits, visit www.art4changeinc.org.