Photo taken at the art competition exhibit opening and awards reception at Pico House Plaza.  In order from left to right: Norma Roque (Emcee and Reporter for Univision); Douglas Andrews (Warren High School Art Instructor); Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (competition’s honorary chair); Brittney Dreher (2nd place winner from Downey, entry title: Highlight of My Life); Martha Saucedo (Vice President of Community Affairs for AEG); Kara Medrano (Chair of the 2009 Organizing Committee and Legislative Analyst for Central Basin Municipal Water District.)

Quote by Brittney Dreher (2nd Place); 12th Grade; Warren High School; Instructor: Douglas Andrews; Highlight of My Life; Oil.

“Ever since I was young, one thing was clear to me—that my calling in life was to inspire others and express myself through visual art.  My personality is very much revealed in my art—my drive for perfection, attention to detail, and taste for colors.

This painting is a depiction of my second passion—traveling.  Traveling encourages understanding between dissimilar people and cultures, allowing people to gain knowledge of the world, humility, and an altered perspective of life.  In the painting, the map relates to traveling, but also symbolizes the infinite options that life presents.  Also, the picture that I am sketching within the piece represents the difficult decisions in life that shape individuals.  The sketch itself reflects all the unique experiences brought back from my specific trip or journey.  Seeing the world and all it has to offer is a great love of mine, and therefore, a Highlight of My Life.

The 34th Congressional District Student Art Competition is an excellent method to encourage young minds to think creatively, express themselves, and contribute to a more beautiful world.  I am extremely excited to be starting my life as an artist.”