Delegate Jeion Ward, Delegate Mamye BaCote, Congressman Bobby Scott and Delegate Robin Abbot congratulate senior Mary Mack for her piece “Solitary.” It won first place in the High School Arts Competition.
by Rachael Buck and Alexis Cosby
Most high school artists would be excited to see their work hanging just about anywhere, from the school hallway to their parents’ fridge, but one senior is talented enough to have her work on display in exhibits from Richmond to Washington, D.C.
Senior art student Mary Mack has received multiple awards and honors. Most recently, she won first place for her piece, “Solitary,” in the 18th Annual Third Congressional District High School Art Competition. Mary received a scholarship and grant money, and her art will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol for a year.
“I’m happy that my artwork is being recognized for all the hard work that I’ve put into it,” Mary said.
Another piece by Mary is on display at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond, and she won first place for her entry in the Holocaust and Tolerance Education Visual Arts Contest.
Mary said her art is the best way to express herself.
“Without art there really wouldn’t be any uniqueness,” Mary said. “There wouldn’t be any individuality.”
Art teacher Dana Dabney taught Mary during her freshman and sophomore years. She said Mary has potential, and her pieces always stand out.
“She is talented and doesn’t boast,” Ms. Dabney said. “There wasn’t a project that I didn’t like of hers.”
Art teacher Dawn Vass said Mary is great with colored pencils and attention to detail.
“I’ve seen a big growth in her work in the last year where she is being more creative and more thoughtful in her work,” Ms. Vass said.
Senior Shakia Robertson, a fellow art student, said Mary is one of the best artists in the school.
“I think what makes her different is just how much time she spends on her artwork,” Shakia said. “She takes every project seriously. She does a very good job.”
After graduation, Mary plans to attend Virginia Commonwealth University and major in art education. Fellow art student Justice Elder said she will be an excellent teacher.
“She has the skills to teach others how to show representation through their work and expressions,” senior Justice said.
Ms. Dabney said Mary will be a successful artist no matter which path she follows.
“She has a lot of her own ideas and would always take the assignments to the next level,” Ms. Dabney said. “She has a ton of potential.”
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