This summer, Hernando teens were challenged to Make a Better World. And their response was nothing short of beautiful.
The iEmpower Club, a youth-driven group that seeks to educate community teens about critical teen health topics, is a division of Be Empowered Teens and Youth based at The WellCome OM Center in Spring Hill. As part of its mission “to provide the support, resources, and skills that teens need to improve their confidence and mental health,” the club presented a Teen Art Contest for artists in grades 6-12. Through their drawings, paintings, photos, and digital art, they were encouraged to address the theme, “Make a Better World.”
The winner of the Teen Art Contest is Tanuj S., a ninth-grader who impressed the judges with his artwork, Building the Tower of Peace and Progress: Together Let Us Make a Better World. Despite his young age, this fine arts specialist already has staked a considerable claim in the art world–and on a global level.
“I am 15 years old and from India. From a very early age of 1.5 years, I started drawing and painting. I was then enrolled in a local art school and from there my creative journey started,” said Tanuj. “I have won 10 international awards (in countries namely: Bulgaria, France, U.S.A., Japan, Kazakhstan, etc.) and 40+ national level awards in the field of Fine Arts.”
Tanuj’s latest masterwork boasted a mission that extended far beyond the winning of an art competition.
“Through my painting I have stressed on the need of peace and harmony among the international communities to achieve the combined goal of having a better world and future,” he said. “We should regard the whole world as our own family, strengthen the feeling of brotherhood and humanity to make this world a better place to live.”
“I have also showcased the diverse cultures from different parts of the world as a symbol of diversity,” he said, “but despite this fact we all are united by the bond of humanity and brotherhood.”
In honor of his first-place win, Tanuj S. won a $75 gift card plus participation in a free Canvas Creations paint class. Yet the hope and happiness inspired by his work may very well be priceless.
Spread your own hope and happiness among the people of Hernando County. Send your inspirational stories, photos, and creative works to community reporter Megan Hussey at [email protected]. Show us your ‘Sun’shine!
