Here is 11th-grade student Parker Holzgang from El Camino Fundamental High School posing with the Ruth Jansen Award for Best of Show that he received for his piece, “The Conflagration of Man.” Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified School District

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Students across San Juan Unified School District were honored for their creativity and talent at the Northern California Youth Art Month (YAM) competition at PBS KVIE’s Art Gallery on March 1.

Their work stood out among young artists from the region, earning awards in multiple categories, including painting, mixed media, two-dimensional and three-dimensional art.

Among the winners, 11th-grade student Parker Holzgang from El Camino Fundamental High School received the Ruth Jansen Award for Best of Show for his piece “The Conflagration of Man.” PBS KVIE’s art curator, Jill Stroff, selected Holzgang’s work for its striking imagery and emotional depth.

“The Conflagration of Man is alive!” said Stroff. “The threatening flames are beautifully rendered with sparks and embers spreading beyond the already blackened trees engulfed in clouds of smoke, in contrast to the lush green trees the animals are fleeing to."

Holzgang said his painting was inspired by the impact of wildfires on wildlife, a reality he sees in California.

“I wanted to show how animals are forced to flee, but also how the fire’s destruction keeps spreading,” Holzgang said.

The painting, which took three weeks to complete, was also a personal challenge for Holzgang.

“I don’t usually paint this many different animals, so I had to relearn how to draw each one,” Holzgang said. “Capturing the movement of fire and smoke was also tricky, and I experimented with acrylic paint more than I had before.”

Winning Best of Show was an unexpected honor.

Parker Holzgang from El Camino Fundamental High School. Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified School District

“I was really shocked,” said Holzgang. “I’ve done a few smaller shows but this is the biggest recognition I’ve ever received.”

The achievement has also given Holzgang confidence in pursuing art further.

“This award means a lot to me because it motivates me to continue my art journey,” said Holzgang.

Holzgang also credited his school’s art program and teachers for their support.

“Ms. McDonald encouraged me to enter, and without her, I probably wouldn’t have. She and the other art teachers create such a positive environment that helps students grow,” Holzgang said.

In addition to Holzgang’s recognition, students from El Camino Fundamental High School, Mira Loma High School, Rio Americano High School and Gold River Discovery Center earned awards in various categories. That include third- to fifth-grade mixed media where Ani Khachatrya from Gold River Discovery Center K-8 won first- place and Grace Tucker earned second-place.

In the sixth- to eighth-grade mixed media, Angelina Isayan from Gold River Discovery Center K-8 secured first- place, followed by Aliyah Rust in second-place. For sixth-to eighth grade two-dimensional, May Nguyen from Gold River Discovery Center placed second.

Their achievements reflect the strong arts programs across San Juan Unified and the dedication of students and educators alike.