Dear Art Enthusiasts, Educators, and Guidance Counselors,

As I celebrate the fourth anniversary of the WCADC Visual Art Scholarship, I’m reaching out to you with a heartfelt invitation to join us in supporting the next generation of talented artists. This scholarship, created during the pivotal moments of 2020, has become a beacon of opportunity for BIPOC female artists in Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia, offering up to $4,000 to one exceptional winner each year.

For Art Collectors:

Your passion for art has the power to shape the future of emerging artists. By following and purchasing works from up-and-coming talents like our finalists and scholarship winners, you not only add unique and meaningful pieces to your collection but also directly contribute to the growth and success of these artists. This year, we’ve been inspired by the profound works of Skylar O., Olivia E., and our scholarship winner, Jada M. Their art explores themes of identity, mental wellness, cultural heritage, and self-discovery—topics that resonate deeply in today’s world.

By supporting these artists, you’re investing in the future of art itself. These young creators bring fresh perspectives and innovative techniques that enrich the art community and beyond. I encourage you to follow their journeys, attend their exhibitions, and consider adding their pieces to your collection. Your support can make a lasting impact on their careers and the broader art world.

For Teachers and Guidance Counselors:

Your role in nurturing young talent is invaluable. We urge you to encourage your students to explore the vast opportunities that art scholarships can offer. Programs like the WCADC Visual Art Scholarship provide not only financial support but also recognition and encouragement that can propel a young artist’s career forward.

Please share with your students the importance of seeking out art scholarships and applying for programs that can help them pursue their creative passions. The benefits extend far beyond the financial aspect—scholarships like ours open doors to networking, professional development, and community support. They also provide a platform for young artists to showcase their work to a broader audience, including collectors who are eager to discover new talent.

Join Us in Celebrating Artistic Talent:

Whether you’re an art collector looking to expand your collection or an educator guiding the next generation, your involvement is crucial. Together, we can create a thriving environment where young artists are encouraged, supported, and celebrated.

Meet Our Finalists: Skylar Ogunshakin-White and Olivia Ensign

Skylar O. from Washington, DC 

Skylar’s work exudes a sense of tranquility and profound introspection. In one of her highlighted pieces, the delicate use of colored pencils creates a soft, ethereal quality, drawing the viewer into a world where serenity and individuality take center stage. The figure at the heart of the composition is surrounded by moths—symbols often associated with transformation and inner growth. Skylar’s choice of muted yet vibrant hues and her gentle blending of colors convey a peaceful yet powerful message.

In her own words, Skylar states, "Throughout my artwork series, I wanted to explore the theme of serenity and individuality. As someone who profoundly values mental wellness and self-evolution, I strive to portray concepts that underlie this theme, such as the experience of struggling with deep-rooted insecurities, emptiness, and low esteem. However, I also seek to signify the beauty of self-discovery, where one learns to listen to one's needs, gain self-awareness, and let go of unhealthy situations that no longer serve a positive or progressive purpose—ultimately evolving into something beautiful."

Olivia E. from Silver Spring, MD

Olivia’s work is a powerful blend of personal experience, cultural heritage, and universal themes that resonate deeply with viewers. Through her vibrant and dreamy color palette, she skillfully juxtaposes intense and often uncomfortable topics with an aesthetic that evokes both bliss and curiosity. Her art explores identity, particularly the complexities of growing up biracial and navigating the nuances of her African-American and Welsh ancestry.

Olivia shares, "I use personal experiences and my African-American and Welsh ancestry to tell universal stories about human nature, identity, and social change. I strive to create a juxtaposition between my subject matter and the mediums I use by utilizing vibrant yet dreamy color palettes that evoke bliss and curiosity despite tense or uncomfortable topics."

 Introducing Our Winner: Jada McAliley.

Jada M. from Randallstown, MD 

We are thrilled to announce Jada as the winner of the Visual Art Scholarship for 2023-2024. Jada’s work stands out for its deeply personal exploration of identity and self-perception, communicated through a unique style that blends realism with conceptual elements. Her use of oil paints to explore themes of isolation, self-discovery, and the passage of time is both innovative and emotionally resonant.

In her award-winning piece, *Noise Cancellation Headphones*, Jada creates a self-portrait that experiments with the concept of opacity. She explains,

 "My oil painting titled *'Noise Cancellation Headphones'* is a self-portrait that experiments with opacity. When I’m alone in my room, I’m in my own world, disassociated from everything happening outside of my personal space. The headphones heighten this experience by blocking out any noise around me, allowing me to enjoy my music and time alone. In this piece, I repeated my figure multiple times and made some translucent to show motion and the passage of time during this solo experience. This painting was successful and is consistent with my original concept. The figures gradually become more opaque, like I intended."

Jada’s exploration of identity, mental space, and the subtle changes that occur within us over time showcases her profound understanding of the human experience. Her scholarship will enable her to further her education and enhance her artistic skills. We are excited to see her growth and contributions to the art world.

To learn more about the WCADC Visual Art Scholarship and how you can get involved, please visit www.wcadc.org Let’s work together to ensure that emerging artists have the opportunities and recognition they deserve.