Downers Grove, Illinois—Two students from Downers Grove South High School were honored nationally for their artwork in the 2024 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.
Alexi Newsome and Lukas Meliukstis were among a select group of students to earn the national award. The competition typically receives 300-thousand submissions nationwide.
Newsome received a National Gold Medal for the piece “I Spy With My Little Eye a Lot of Debt.”
“This is Alexi’s second national award through scholastics, which speaks to her level of talent. I am so proud of her thought, creativity and attention to detail in this drawing,” said Katherine O’Truk, drawing and painting teacher.
While Lukas Meliukstis received the National Silver Medal for his work entitled “Swag.”
“This award is coming from Lukas’ first year in Photo I, which is really exciting! Lukas spent his time in Digital Photo creating beautiful and fun photographs using experimentation and working beyond expectations. I could see the excitement and pride when Lukas presented his work, and I couldn’t be more proud of his accomplishments,” said digital photo teacher Sam Wascher.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, founded in 1923, have produced several high-profile alumni, including Andy Warhol, Truman Capote, and Stephen King.