A drawing of a favorite holiday netted freshman Abby Mechachonis first place and a $100 prize in a local art contest, sponsored by Florida Sports and Spinal Rehab.

“Her cartooning ability and high skill-set made her rendering look very cute,” graphic design teacher Jim Finch said. “Cartooning is her forte.”

Mechachonis said her entry represented her ideal Winter Break experience.

“The art piece was what I wanted to do during the holidays  — unfortunately I didn’t — to see snow. So I drew myself riding a sled down a snowy hill. I am bolted upward. Around me were pine trees covered with decorations,” Mechachonis said.”I was quite impressed with it because it was a traditional piece. I am normally doing digital work on my computer, so I wasn’t expecting to be happy with it.”

Finch suggested his graphic design class enter the contest but did not make it a mandatory assignment.

“I’m grateful that Mr. Finch made us aware of the contest and encouraged us to participate,” Mechachonis said. “I’m not sure I would have had the confidence to submit a piece on my own. This is my first entry into any type of art contest. Art is my passion. I plan on getting a job in the art field.”

By Allie Henderson