When Union Grove High School junior Ava Preston-Elliott learned that someone wanted to purchase a painting she created, she was thrilled, and that opportunity soon turned into something even more special.
Last spring, Dr. Susan Hunt of Eagle, Wisconsin, stopped by Just Brew It! coffee shop in Union Grove while visiting the area. During her visit, she was drawn to the colorful student artwork displayed on the shop’s walls as part of an ongoing collaboration with UGHS art teacher Mr. Kravig, who regularly showcases student pieces in the community.
"I was fascinated with Mr. Kravig’s student art display hanging on the wall," said Dr. Hunt. "I was particularly interested in a fanciful picture of a dog that was painted by a student named Mia. I contacted Mr. Kravig and asked to purchase that painting."
Inspired by the artwork she saw, Dr. Hunt asked whether a student could create a similar piece featuring her pet cat, Toby. Because the school year was nearly over, she was encouraged to reconnect in the fall, and that’s when Mr. Kravig introduced her to Ava.
Ava eagerly accepted the commission and began work on Toby’s portrait this school year. "I was very excited to hear she wanted a painting, because I love any art opportunity I can get," Ava said.
She described her process as thoughtful and detailed. "I started by looking at Toby’s pictures a lot. I wanted to really make sure it looked like him. I then started with a drawing of him, then blocked out the shapes, patterns, and colors. I needed to make sure the colors and patterns were balanced in the entire painting."
Throughout the project, Ava learned valuable lessons about working with a client. "I’m very used to making whatever I want and when I want, but it was good to learn how to make artwork that needed to look a certain way and get done in a timely manner. It’s good to know for any future projects," she reflected.
Dr. Hunt was equally delighted with the final result. "When Mr. Kravig sent me an email with a photo of Ava’s painting, I was delighted with the image I saw. Her painting far exceeded my expectations in both creativity and style," she said. "My hope was that Ava would feel free to do her own thing without restrictions and to exercise her imagination and freedom of expression. I wanted the painting to show Ava’s artistic vision."
Ava said seeing Dr. Hunt’s reaction was the best part of the experience. "I felt pretty good! I thought the painting turned out pretty well, and it made me very excited that she liked it too!"
Dr. Hunt shared her appreciation for the opportunity to support young artists. "I am very interested in student art and would like to see more student art on display in their home communities. Mr. Kravig’s effort to exhibit student art in Union Grove is an excellent way to encourage young artists and give their work exposure," she said.
Union Grove High School extends sincere thanks to Dr. Hunt for supporting student creativity and congratulates Ava Preston-Elliott on her artistic achievement.