STATE OF THE ART

10th-grade MPHS student local runner-up in 2022 State of the State Art Contest

A Mt. Pleasant High School student was one of the finalists for the 2022 State of the State art contest.

The art contest challenged K-12 students across Michigan to come up with a creative design for the 2022 State of the State program cover following the theme “Why do you believe in Michigan?” Students were encouraged to be as creative as possible and were welcome to use crayon, marker, paint, or any other material.

“Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, but it’s also home to some incredibly talented students who turned those backdrops into amazing works of art,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “I want to thank every student who took the time to create these masterpieces and submit their interpretation of why they believe in Michigan. It’s inspiring to see the passion and potential in all of the gifted and creative students in this state.”

This year’s prize is a Cherry Republic Go Fish Gift Box containing:

Around 800 students from around the state submitted their artwork and the governor selected the winner out five finalists.

One of the five finalists was Clara Bonnell, a 10th grade student from Mt. Pleasant High School.

Bonnell received a link to enter the contest from her Mom, who encouraged her to enter a piece of artwork.

“I had no idea that I would get runner-up when I first entered the contest,” Bonnell said. “After a few failed attempts, I finally completed and submitted a marker drawing, not expecting anything from it. But when I got a call from the Governor’s office saying I had made it to the final five, I was in shock. I’m so excited that my artwork was seen and liked by Governor Whitmer. I had a lot of fun creating the drawing, and it represents how I see the State of Michigan. I’m so glad I got to participate in this awesome opportunity.”

Whitmer announced the winner of the 2022 State of the State art contest is Grace Murtha, a 7th grade student from Hemlock Middle School.

During her 2022 State of the State address, Governor Whitmer will share her comprehensive vision for Michigan and a plan to address key issues.

The 2022 State of the State address will be held in a virtual format and broadcast live throughout the state on the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 26.

IMAGES COURTESY OF STATE OF MICHIGAN Clara Bonnell, a 10th grader from Mount Pleasant High School, was a runner up for the 2022State of the State Art Contest. Her art is featured at left. The other finalists include, clockwise from above, contest winner Grace Murtha of Hemlock Middle School; Paige Pemble of Charlevoix Middle High School; Natalie Bolak of L’anse Creuse Middle School North; and Audrey Wieringa of Cross Creek Charter Academy. This prize for the year’s winner included a Cherry Republic Go Fish Gift Box containing candy, snacks, a water bottle and playing cards.