Students’ works recognized at Youth Art Expo

Roughly 20 Burbank students were recognized for their artistic talents this week as part of the annual Youth Art Expo, which featured the drawings, sketches and sculptures of more than 200 students.

The program, which was organized by the park, recreation and community services department and the Burbank Fine Arts Federation, received 1,500 art submissions from students in kindergarten through 12th grade, according to gallery director Frances Santistevan.

Roughly 250 were chosen for the exhibit, and 20 students were awarded for their talent. Among them were Justin Saisirikul and Ericka Hall, both seniors at Burbank High School. They each received “best of show” honors for their black-and-white portrait drawings.

“It widens their interests, makes them more creative and gives them more choices in life,” Santistevan said of the program’s impact on students.

Samantha Sanchez, a freshman at Providence High School, created a sculpture of Mickey Mouse’s head on top of a globe.

“I love Mickey, so I might as well show the world where your imagination can take you to instead of social media,” she said, adding that she feels people her age pay too much attention to the virtual world. “It’s better to be creative with your hands and with your mind.”

Jonathan Raymundo, a freshman at Burbank High School, sketched a portrait of Filipino professional boxer Manny Pacquiao after his teacher told him to draw something inspirational.

“It feels really cool,” Raymundo said about having his work on display. “It’s never happened to me, so I’m kind of excited.”

The artwork will be on display at the Creative Arts Center Gallery, located at 1100 W. Clark Ave., through April 24.
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Follow Alene Tchekmedyian on Google+ and on Twitter: @atchek.