In a celebration of creativity and academic aspiration, the Seacoast Artist Association (SAA) has bestowed ten prestigious scholarships for the year 2025 upon high school seniors dedicated to pursuing visual arts education at accredited institutions. For three decades and seven years, this initiative has partnered with local educators to identify promising students whose artistic prowess stands out. While applications require a comprehensive submission including portfolios, personal statements, recommendation letters, and proof of college acceptance, final selections are made by each high school's scholarship committee. This year's awardees represent diverse artistic interests spanning fine arts, graphic design, architecture, and interactive media.

A Celebration of Aspiring Artists Across the Region

Under the golden hues of an inspiring season, ten remarkable students from various corners of the region have been recognized for their commitment to the arts. From Portsmouth High School, Jillian Black aspires to achieve an MFA at Maine College of Art and Design. Annalise Courcy "Rin" from Sanborn Regional High School looks forward to exploring filmmaking at Champaign College. Exeter High School’s Samantha Gravener is set to study fine arts at Great Bay Community College, while Lillie Hamilton from Somersworth High School plans to specialize in graphic design at Suffolk University. Brennan Nalen of Spaulding High School will focus on game art at Southern New Hampshire University. Alex Lomerson from Winnacunnet High School aims to master interactive design at Clark University. Elena Pavlik from Oyster River High School intends to pursue architecture at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, alongside Mia Weglarz, also from Oyster River, who will attend Roger Williams University for the same field. Maria Wheeler from Epping High School envisions a future in architecture at Wentworth Institute of Technology. Lastly, Jason Williams from Newmarket High School seeks to blend art and psychology at Great Bay Community College. These talented individuals will be celebrated during a special reception held at the Exeter Town Hall on May 9th, where their works will join those of esteemed SAA members.

As one reflects on this remarkable initiative, it becomes evident that nurturing young talent through financial support and recognition not only bolsters individual futures but also enriches communities culturally. Such programs underscore the importance of fostering creativity in education systems, proving vital stepping stones for aspiring artists navigating their career paths.