U.S. Senator Jack Reed has officially announced the winners of Rhode Island's 2026 High School Art Competition, with Bellah Torres from Scituate High School securing the top honor for her compelling ink drawing titled "Untitled." The award-winning artworks, alongside a diverse collection of 55 student submissions from 22 schools across the state, are currently on public display at Warwick Mall, offering residents an opportunity to view the talent through May 3.
Valeria Del Carmen Quintana of Cranston High School East earned second place with her piece, "Parent's Love," while Soelil Peang from Cranston High School West was awarded third place for "A Mother's Love." All recognized students will receive ribbons and custom framing for their winning entries, acknowledging their artistic achievements.
The competition, spearheaded by Senator Reed, serves as an annual platform to highlight the exceptional artistic capabilities of high school students throughout Rhode Island. This year's event garnered entries from 22 participating schools, resulting in a vibrant exhibition that showcases the breadth and depth of young artistic expression. The public is encouraged to visit Warwick Mall before May 3 to experience these creations firsthand and celebrate the creativity of the state's emerging artists.
The ongoing exhibition at Warwick Mall not only provides a significant platform for these budding artists to present their work to a broader audience but also underscores the vital role of art education and creative development within local communities.