By Brooke Curley
THATCHER – One teen stole the show, and came back with all the prizes to prove it.
Jenny Griffin, 14, of Central, participated in the Little Art Gallery’s Youth Art Show and claimed not only the Best of Show prize, but also first and second place for her artworks. A reception for the participating artists was held Monday, where the local artists and youth-artists gathered with family and friends to celebrate youthful artistic talent.
“I felt surprised and amazed and happy all at the same time,” Griffin said. “I did not think I would win that many.”
Griffin began her artistic career when just a toddler and has recently begun professional art lessons.
“I started drawing at 3-years-old, mostly wolves and dragons,” she said. “I started taking formal lessons in spring of 2016 with Deanna Cluff.”
When asked what her future plans might be, Griffin said she hopes to become an animator for a film animation company akin to Pixar or Disney. However, she also said she will continue learning multiple art mediums.
Griffin said she loves to draw cartoon pug dogs, which isn’t surprising since she has for pug dogs. She also said she enjoys working with bright colors, such as colorful animals and sunsets.
“Watercolor is my favorite type (of medium) right now,” Griffin said. “My Baby Doll painting is watercolor and it was the Best of Show in the art contest.”
The youth art show was the first competition she has entered so far, and Griffin enjoyed it so much it has prompted her to enter her work into the Graham County Fair’s competition, even though the competition may be more intense. She said she likes a challenge.
When asked about her artistic motivations, Griffin said her teacher inspires her.
“Deanna Cluff is my favorite artist,” she said. “She has amazing talent and inspires me to explore and try different things. I also look at artists online who draw or paint. Van Gogh is also an inspiration.”
