Libertyville fifth-grader wins state poster contest
Liv Bertaud, a 10-year-old fifth-grader at Copeland Manor School in Libertyville, took first place in a statewide arts education poster contest. The winners recently were honored by the State Board of Education at the Governor's Mansion in Springfield.
"I think the theme 'Art is Everywhere' is important. It helps people realize that art is tucked into the little corners of life," Bertaud said. Her art instructor is Cindi Sartain in Libertyville Elementary District 70.
The winning artwork is featured on a poster promoting Illinois Arts Education Week. Her mixed-media entry features the four areas of art, which are dance, drama, music and visual arts.
Gov. Pat Quinn issued a proclamation designating the special week.
The contest is a highlight of the 32nd annual Illinois Arts Education Week, which runs March 17-23 to celebrate and highlight the importance of the fine arts. Students across the state competed to create posters reflective of this year's theme.
"It is essential we do not forget the arts in our schools. Arts education teaches our students creativity and contributes significantly to success in college and careers," said State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch.
"Thank you to the educators and teachers for fostering these talents, and congratulations to our winning students and everyone who participated."
The statewide poster contest celebrating Arts Education Week alternates between elementary/middle and secondary students each year. The contest was open to students in grades K-8 this year.
"It's not just in museums and theaters. It is essential to remember these things because without art, music or dance, so many people would be caught in a void or left without the love of creativity. I feel it is essential for me and for everyone, really, to remember that art really is everywhere and that we have to be thankful for that," Bertaud said.
Second place in the poster contest went to Tina Nair of Maercker School District 60. She is a 13-year-old eighth-grader at Westview Hills Middle School in Willowbrook. Her art instructor is Josh Vance.
Casey K. Darre, a 13-year-old seventh-grader at Westfield Middle School in Bloomingdale, received third place in ISBE's poster contest. Casey's art instructor in Bloomingdale School District 13 is Deyana S. Matt.
In addition to honoring students, the 2014 Illinois Alliance for Arts Education award ceremony recognized individuals, community organizations and businesses that have contributed to the arts and art education.
Visit http://www.isbe.net/grants/arts_week/default.htm to view the winning poster and artwork.