ARTSNCT celebrates overwhelming participation in art contest

The Arts Center of Newcomerstown announced the success of its recent art contest, Schmuey’s 13th Birthday Art Contest. This event celebrated the center’s blue Quaker parrot Schmuey, who has become an endearing presence among students attending the center’s free art classes.

Schmuey, adopted as a service bird by ARTSNCT, is a favorite among the students, often perching on tables or the backs of chairs while they work on their projects.

“The contest was extremely successful,” said Michael Wise, executive director of ARTSNCT. “Every class from K-12 in the Newcomerstown school system participated, along with a small group of adult residents who also submitted their artworks.”

With over 500 entries, the judges faced the challenge of selecting winners. The first-place winners were as follows:

—K-5 category: Addi Fox, fourth grade.

—Sixth grade through 12th grade: Deleney Baker, high school art two.

—Adult category: Regina Schilling.

Prizes were awarded to these artists at their respective schools, celebrating their artistic efforts and creativity.

ARTSNCT remains committed to nurturing artistic talent in the community. This summer the center will offer a limited series of free art classes titled Art in the Park at Cy Young Park. The classes for K-12 will resume in October and November as part of the LEAD after-school program at West Elementary School and again in March and April 2025.

In addition to these initiatives, ARTSNCT has a history of conducting both art and theater programs.

As a 100% volunteer-operated nonprofit organization, ARTSNCT relies on the support of private donations. The center invites businesses and individuals to sponsor these free classes, ensuring continued access to the arts for all. Interested sponsors can call or email ARTSNCT at 740-575-5710 or michael.wise@artsnct.org.