Just five years ago FHS students only had traditional artistic mediums to choose from within the school curriculum. Now, many art students have put the paintbrushes and drawing pencils to rest and are charting creative technological territory. In the recent Imation contest, an organization that gives out art scholarships nation-wide, two pieces of artwork were accepted by seniors Montage Hix and Kris Hanson. Only one art entry is permitted per thousand students and a only a total of 1,200 students from all over the country were allowed to be judged. “I was pretty happy that I got to send my work in,” said Hix. “It was a chance for me to challenge other people that do the same thing.” Both Hix and Hanson have been working with computer artwork for two years and are currently studying AP studio art under the instruction of Wes Hines. “The computer and program don’t make the art,” said Hines. “It still needs the concepts of traditional art.” Hanson received national recognition for placing among the top 100 other works of art. His entry was based on a myth and composed into a collage of colorful manipulations. Hanson used the programs Photoshop and Poser to create his entry. “It was the latest thing I’ve done,” said Hanson. “It was probably one of the best-looking ones of mine.” Hanson has worked professionally in graphic design and has designed other things like the boys’ state cross-country team t-shirts. “Two years ago I got a computer program that I liked,” said Hanson. “I just took off from there.” Despite not receiving recognition, Hix still maintains strong appreciation for graphic design. “I just have a liking for computer artwork,” said Hix. “It stands out more.” As for their technological futures, Hanson will go into graphic design as his second choice, and the career Hix is interested in involves a tight grasp of computer knowledge. “It’s going to be more movie special effects,” said Hix. “The stuff right now is just the starting point.” |
