The public is invited to help local students win funding for their art program through a unique nationwide contest.
Seneca Valley High School art students are participating in the 10th annual Vans Custom Culture Competition. SV is one of the top 50 schools in the nation, and the only school from Pennsylvania, competing.
Seneca Valley High School Art Students’ creation of two sculptural shoes were selected out of 500 schools nationwide.
“For the ‘Off the Wall’ theme, our concept grew from the idea that Vans shoes have always been a shoe company for creative types: artists, skateboarders, surfers, etc.,” said Seneca Valley Senior High School Art Teacher Jason Woolslare. “We wanted to depict a world rendered in a pop-surrealistic style.”
He said all pieces are original and handcrafted by SV students.
One piece features a ‘Local Flavor’ concept, which was designed around the theme of ‘Stronger than Hate.’
“As people living in the Pittsburgh region, we were all affected by the tragedy at The Tree of Life Synagogue. Creatively, it was difficult to express every emotion,” Woolslare said. “Therefore, we decided to depict our region in the most positive way, utilizing the phrase ‘Stronger than Hate’ and creating a colorful rendition of the region for which we are so proud. We focused on the creative scenes, food scenes and symbolism of bridging people together. The bridges and buildings surrounding our design symbolize the coming together of all of Pittsburgh’s ethnic groups that shape the rich culture found within our unique city.”
Vans goal is to bring attention to the importance of youth creativity and self-expression by donating $75,000 toward the winning school’s art program, and $10,000 to the four runner-up’s.
Public voting is now open through May 3. To support SV, vote daily here: www.customculture.vans.com.
