VALLEY CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Valley City High School (VCHS) is celebrating a historic achievement as two of its students, Cheska Flores (senior) and Jossi Zahn (9th grade), took home first-place honors in their respective divisions at the Art of Conservation Songbird Art Contest, hosted by Wildlife Forever. This marks the first time VCHS art students have participated in the contest—and they made an unforgettable debut by sweeping the top awards for the state of North Dakota.
Jossi Zahn’s winning piece, created with Prismacolor pencils, beautifully captures two American goldfinches nestled on a branch against a softly blended green background. Meanwhile, Cheska Flores impressed judges with her stylized gouache interpretation of the goldfinch, bringing a fresh and artistic perspective to the species.
Jossi Zahn’s winning piece, created with Prismacolor pencils, beautifully captures two American goldfinches nestled on a branch against a softly blended green background. Meanwhile, Cheska Flores impressed judges with her stylized gouache interpretation of the goldfinch, bringing a fresh and artistic perspective to the species.
“This is an incredible achievement for our students,” said Stephani Krueger, VCHS 7-12th grade Art Teacher. “To have both our first-time entrants take first place in their divisions is a testament to their talent and dedication to the arts.”
The Art of Conservation Songbird Art Contest encourages young artists to explore the beauty of nature while raising awareness about conservation efforts. The competition is known for its high-caliber submissions from across the state and country.
She said with this historic win, VCHS art students have set the bar high for future competitors in ND. For more information about the Art of Conservation Songbird Art Contest, visit https://www.theartofconservation.org/songbird-art-contest
For more information about the Art of Conservation Songbird Art Contest, visit https://www. theartofconservation.org/ songbird-art-contest