Aquinas students may have noticed some new decorations throughout campus this year, as the Residence Hall Association hosted its first annual AQ Art competition. Initiated by Brian Matzke, Dean of Student Services, and student-led by Adam Kubiak, the competition was open to all students who wished to show off their artistic skills, and the chance for prize money.

“I thought that AQ Art would be a great idea and a piggy back from Art Prize,” said Matzke. “I thought that if we could get students involved, that we could get some classy artwork in the residence halls and students could win some money as well as have their talents on display.”

Submitted pieces were displayed in the Moose during the fall, and were open to student votes to choose the top ten. Those top pieces then went through another panel of student and faculty judges, with the top three chosen as winners.

“All of this will help them later on as they continue to develop their artistic passions,” said Robert Hamel, senior and RHA Chairman. “It was a great event and everything turned out unbelievably well. (Aquinas President) Dr. Balog was even at the presentation ceremony showing his dedication to the students.”

Mary Reyna, sophomore, was chosen as a winner for her two pieces in colored pencil: Bart and Rachel, and Nate. Her works is on permanent display in Ravine Apartment C.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to show your talents and be proud of your accomplishments,” said Reyna. “Next year I can see this competition becoming more fierce and hopefully more people will be encouraged to enter since I know there are many great artists.”

Samantha DeStefano, junior, won for her work in printmaking, The Little Things in Life. Her work is on permanent display in St. Joseph Hall.

“It’s funny to hear my friends say ‘hey, I know who made that piece,’” said DeStefano. “I’m very proud to have it up and one day when I become an art teacher I can tell my students that I have a permanent piece at AQ.”

The final winner was sophomore Marah Klose, for her mixed media piece: Sustainabilitree. Her piece can be found in the Regina Lounge.

“I am still a little flustered by the idea that I actually won third because I felt really humbled next to some of other entries,” said Klose. “I’m excited that it will be in the same place for a long time to come.”

All involved are hoping to see the competition continued in the future, and encourage students to take part in this unique opportunity.