Two student artists from Alaska had their artwork displayed for the nation at the Great American State Fair after winning state-level first place in the National American Heroes Student Art Contest. Hulda Cox from Anchorage won the elementary (grades 3-5) award and Konnor Kiddle from Palmer won the middle school (grades 6-8) award. Alaska did not have any student submissions for the high school level.
The competition was hosted by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and organized by Freedom 250, the leading organizer for America 250 celebrations.
“Freedom At Last” by Hulda Cox
Hulda’s artwork, titled “Freedom At Last,” honored Harriet Tubman.
Hulda wrote in a short essay displayed with her artwork: “My American Hero is Harriet Tubman. She was a remarkable woman and helped slaved escape. My drawing is inspired by the Hudson River School and shows the beautiful land of America. Not only did Harriet help slaves escape but also helped them realize they are beautiful and part of God’s creation. Harriet was a generous person because when she found out black people were safer in the New England states, she did not keep that to herself. She took many dangerous risks to save other slaves. Harriet shows us an example to stand up for ourselves and others when we are not being treated just.”
“Neil’s View” by Konnor Kiddle
Konnor’s artwork, titled “Neil’s View,” honored Neil Armstrong…