HUNTERSVILLE – Thirty-seven student artists from Hopewell High School showcased their work at a show presented by Rich and Sandi Sampson, owners of The Great Frame Up in Birkdale Village, earlier this month.

On April 13, The Great Frame Up held a reception to celebrate the work of Lake Norman’s next generation of artists. In the days leading up to the event, store visitors voted on their favorite pieces for the People’s Choice award, and a jury of three judges selected the best work in five categories. The show is a part of the National Creative Self-Expression Show contest, sponsored by The Great Frame Up.

Awards were presented to: Mitchell Weir for best digital piece, “In Flames;” Jessica Traugott for best drawing, “Such is Still Life;” Rachel Carter for best mixed media piece, “Caged Peacock.” The piece also won the Best of Show Award. Other awards went to Kayla Broadway for best painting, “Lots of Lines;” Jesse Beard for best sculpture, “Spatial Exploration;” and Norah Richond for people’s choice, “Masquerading.”

“Displaying the student’s art allows the community to see what these talented students have accomplished,” said Huntersville Mayor Jill Swain, who attended the show. “The Creative Self-Expression Shows give students and outlet to create in whatever medium inspires them and to have their work reviewed by professionals.

Judges Manny Rashet, an artist and art instructor; Lori Neal, an artist and past president of the Lake Norman Art League; and Megan Bird, a graphic artist with Lake Norman Graphics, selected the winners.

Best in Show winner Rachel Carter will move on to the national level to compete for one of two $2,000 scholarships. Birkdale Village also donated $100 gift cards to each of the six Hopewell High winners. The Great Frame Up will frame each winning entry.