Two Buncombe County Schools students have had their artwork go from the schoolhouse to the state house.
Vivian Hoffman, a fourth grader at Haw Creek Elementary, traveled to Raleigh last week with her piece entitled “CityScape.” It was chosen at the North Carolina State Art Educators Conference to be one of the works curated in the General Assembly Youth Art Exhibit. The student and her family were joined by her art teacher, Mary Hunnicutt; Haw Creek Principal Christen Davidson; and members of the Buncombe County legislative delegation.
“It was an amazing and interesting experience to see the other students’ artwork and be honored like that,” shared Vivian. “I really enjoyed meeting Senator [Julie] Mayfield and Representative [Eric] Ager.”
Vivian’s art and the other pieces selected will be displayed at the North Carolina Legislative Building for a year.
“Vivian is an exceptional young artist who enjoys creating using various media such as drawing, painting, and clay,” said Mrs. Hunnicutt. “It was encouraging to hear the dignitaries voice their support of art and education in North Carolina.”
During the special visit, Vivian got to join Senator Mayfield for a special tour and spent some time on the senate floor. She also learned about the history of women in state government, including Lillian Exum Clement. In 1920, Clement became the first woman elected to the North Carolina General Assembly at a time before women could vote. She won in a landslide - 10,368 to 41 - with an all-male electoral vote.
“Vivian was captivated by the experience. She smiled the entire time and listened intently while Sen. Mayfield shared the history of the General Assembly,” said Principal Davidson. “We’re so honored her artwork was selected to be part of this gallery. My hope is that every time a congressional leader walks through the halls of the Legislative Building they are reminded of the importance of the arts in education.”
The North Carolina Arts Educators Conference selected a second piece for the collection from another BCS artist. Lucy Ingram, an eighth grade student at Valley Springs Middle School, will have her painting of a vintage car displayed in the General Assembly gallery as well.
