DeSoto ISD Students Celebrate Artistic Excellence at “The Love of Portraits” Art Contest and Gala
DeSoto ISD proudly recognizes the incredible talent of its student artists who participated in “The Love of Portraits” Art Contest, a district-wide celebration of emerging portrait and figure artists. The event, which launched over spring break and concluded with a powerful Art Gala on May 3, was hosted at the Ellis County African American Hall of Fame Museum and Library in Waxahachie, Texas.
Congratulations to the following scholars who placed in the recent contest:
Division 2 – Kindergarten to Elementary:
🥇 1st Place – Kevin Punch, KJTMA, 4th grade
🥈 2nd Place – Kistinna Hobbs, KJTMA, 4th grade
🥉 3rd Place – Elodie Watson, Ruby Young, 2nd grade
Division 1 – Middle School to High School:
🥇 1st Place – Peyton Johnson, KJTMA, 6th grade
🥈 2nd Place – Meghyn Jones, DeSoto High School, 9th grade
🥉 3rd Place – Isabella Hernandez, KJTMA, 8th grade
Organized by a passionate KJTMA art educator, the contest was designed to give students the opportunity to compete artistically and see their work showcased in a professional environment. “I wanted our students—especially those at KJ—to know their work has value,” said the teacher. “The goal was not just to build skills, but to build belief. This was also about uniting organizations to create something meaningful for our kids.”
With the support of community partners including Dr. Jamaal Rasheed, Cruise Control Ryders MC, Seiwakai Karate of Dallas, an anonymous donor, and KJTMA families, students were given a rare and affirming platform to express their talent.
“This contest reflects our mission to empower young people through culture and creativity,” said Rasheed, curator of the Ellis County African American Hall of Fame Museum and Library. “To see these students’ portraits displayed in a space that honors history and excellence was both powerful and moving.”
KJTMA Interim Principal Yolanda Hanspard praised the effort and vision behind the contest, noting the deeper impact on students: “This was about more than an art show. It gave our students a chance to be seen, to be celebrated, and to understand that their voice has value. Opportunities like this expand their view of what's possible.”
The event reflects DeSoto ISD’s continued commitment to the Triple-A Experience—emphasizing excellence in Academics, Arts, and Athletics. Arts education is not only a creative outlet but a vital element in students’ emotional processing, critical thinking, and confidence building.
“Art builds not just talent, but character,” said Dr. Gene Morrow, Executive Director of Student Support Services and leader of arts initiatives in DeSoto ISD. “When students can express themselves through portraiture and storytelling, it empowers their identity, their voice, and their connection to others. This is how we support the whole child—through experiences that are meaningful and transformative.”
To view the stunning artwork and photos from the Art Gala, visit:
📸 Click to View Photos