AWM artists cop state-wide honors

By Billy Woods

WM School District

The Academies of West Memphis art program has some of the finest talent in Arkansas as evidenced by a most recent state competition.

Senior Chris Blakely won first place in mixed media in the AR Congressional Art competition that was hosted by Congressman Rick Crawford. Also, sophomore Michael Latham was a finalist in painting in the same competition.

AWM art teacher Roxane Lee praised the two winning students.

"Chris and Michael are two of our standout art students," said Lee. "I've taught Chris three years. It's quite an honor to win first place in the state of Arkansas. His artwork is so realistic and it seems like he just stands out in most anything he does. He's an all-around great kid.

"Michael is a wonderful painter. Being a finalist and only a sophomore, says a lot for Michael. He has a natural ability to paint. He loves water color, but he's great with acrylic, too. I can see him just getting better and better."

Blakely's works were entitled Inward Inhabitants and Puzzled Curiosity. Latham's work was entitled Serenity.

Both students want to pursue artwork as a profession.

Blakey said he hasn't yet made up his mind where he will attend college, but it mostly likely will be in Memphis. He has interest in the University of Memphis or Memphis College of Art, majoring in either illustration or graphic design.

Blakely's interest in art dates back to six years of age.

His specialty is realism.

"I try to see my subject as real as possible," he said. "I try to use abstract components and other hidden components to try to show through the realism with a little bit of abstract."

Latham said he one day hopes to own a store and sell his own paintings.

"I love to paint," Latham said. "I really don't remember when my interest in painting started. It just seems like I've always been doing it. Practicing is something I also really enjoy. "

Both students say Lee and the art department at the Academies of West Memphis have been instrumental in developing their skills.

"(Lee) always challenges us and she has this way of communicating with each of us," said Blakely.