Lara Denise Almagro, a grade 12 student at John Paul II won the People’s Choice award in an art competition organized by 100 Kellogg Lane called Art Comp. She won the award Thursday night for her painting, Bittersweet.
The contest was open internationally, to artists of any age, and submissions of any art medium were welcomed. Her Visual Arts teacher, Christine Mancini shared the news of the contest with her class only three days before the submission deadline.
Lara drew inspiration for her painting during a hard time in her life where she struggled with her mental health. Her goal was to inspire other people who have also struggled with their mental health.
Her God given talents have and continue to inspire the John Paul II school community with the support of her teachers, classmates, and administration.
Lara has been interested in art since she was a child, but only ever pursued art as a hobby. She hopes to go to university with the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon.
The London District Catholic School Board and John Paul II community are extremely proud of Lara and her achievements. “[Lara] has inspired so many people, she’s opening up a world for students to try something similar and pursue visual arts,” said Christine Mancini, JP2 Teacher.