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Sewickley Academy is distinguished by not only its rigorous academics and outstanding faculty, but also by its student-centered approach to learning and teaching, in which every child is challenged to explore and excel to his or her highest ability. Learn More
Academy graduates join a network of more than 4,000 alumni across the globe. Astronauts, world-renowned doctors, fashion designers, chefs, filmmakers, zombie experts, world travelers – our alumni are proof that students become determined, courageous, and caring individuals ready to take on life's next challenges. Learn More
Sewickley Academy is proud to announce that Katie Serafin, a Junior from Sewickley, Pennsylvania, was selected as the recipient of the Best of Show Award at the High School Student Exhibition, a regional juried show hosted by Standard Ceramics in Carnegie, Pennsylvania. The Awards Reception was held May 5, 2022 in the Clay Place at Standard Ceramics. Katie submitted two original works, the winning piece, “Skin/Bone Bust,” and “Merged Facial Planes Bust” both created from a grittier clay sculpted onto a newspaper base.
Two other Grade 11 students, Isabella Capito and Elena Mohan, also entered works into the exhibition. Isabella’s “Tea Pot” was inspired by the movie, “Alice in Wonderland,” and Elena’s “Sgraffito Tumbler” was an opportunity to test out a new technique that involves scratching away at a superficial surface to reveal the layer beneath.
The ceramics teacher at Sewickley Academy, Mr. David Lalomia, stated, “I am very proud of all three students for showcasing their artwork in this exhibition. In particular, Katie’s work is unique and stunning. I am honestly not surprised that it caught the attention of the judges.”
Describing her winning piece, Katie said, “I decided to leave this piece unglazed so as to not distract from the texture variance between the skin surface and bone surface. I also think the plain white color highlights where there is shadow created by depth and doesn’t distract away from the overall visual flow of the piece.”
“I am just amazed that I was selected as a winner in this show,” said Katie. “All of the work on display is so impressive. It’s really exciting to see this level of talent from high schools all around the area.”
Katie is planning to continue with ceramics courses in her senior year at Sewickley Academy. Regarding her post-graduation plans, she is looking forward to beginning the college application process and is considering majoring in fine arts.