Omaha Public Schools Students Earn National Art Recognition

It’s not every day a high schooler’s artwork is part of a national exhibit, but several Omaha Public Schools students recently earned that opportunity.

Addy Hamilton and Hani Hassan, Northwest High sophomores, were selected among 150 pieces included in the 29th Annual National K-12 Ceramic Exhibition in Detroit, Michigan.

“I never would have thought that my artwork would be seen by so many people,” said Hamilton. “I’m super proud of myself and happy that my work is being shown off.”

Hamilton’s coil vase, “Witness of the Woods,” was inspired by her love of nature.

“The disguised owl shows how nature can be protective and provide a sense of wisdom and strength,” she said.

Hassan’s ceramic piece, “The Enchanted Strawberry,” was selected from more than 1,000 entries submitted by schools across the country.

“I’m very grateful for this award and opportunity to have my artwork displayed,” said Hassan. “I feel a lot prouder in myself and more confident in my artwork.”

Ryan Carlson, Northwest High art teacher, says that Hamilton and Hassan have worked diligently in and out of the classroom, and it is great to see all their efforts come with many successes. 

“To be recognized on a national level is a high achievement and validates their efforts and persistence,” he said.

Benson High is also celebrating two students whose artwork will travel to Michigan this month.

Sharon Carr, Benson High ceramics teacher, explained that Vittorio Heh and Gerardo Gutierrez-Cano’s pieces began as a class assignment where students created stamps to add texture to ceramic boxes.

“Gerardo’s is very angular, straight-lined and precise,” said Carr. “Vittorio added three different textures, and at one point, he wanted to throw it away. Now, he’s one of 150 students with artwork on display.”

Heh created a textured box with intricate leaf designs throughout.

“I didn’t really have high hopes when I started this project, so I’m shocked how far it came,” said Heh. “I’m just amazed, and I feel so blessed.”

Gutierrez-Cano said it took him a month to assemble his triangular piece.

“To start, I made the slabs for each side, then measured how long it would be,” said Gutierrez-Cano. “I’m very happy because I like doing art and poetry.”

Their artwork will soon be on display, giving thousands of visitors the chance to experience the creativity of Omaha Public Schools students.