Two LWSD students take top spots in regional Holocaust writing, art and film contest

Nearly 200 students from 14 schools in grades 5-12 from Washington, Idaho, Montana and Alaska put together inspiring work at this year’s Holocaust Center for Humanity (HCH) contest. These entries drew inspiration from the unique stories of 48 local survivors. Out of all those entries, a student from Redmond Middle School and one from Telsa STEM High School earned first place for their work.

This year’s "Art of Remembering: Student Art Contest Honoring Holocaust Survivors," put on by HCH, challenges students to explore the history and personal stories of the Holocaust and to consider how these stories connect to our lives today.

Redmond Middle School eighth grader Amishi Ahuja won first place in the grades 5-8 art category. Amishi wrote the following about her artwork:

During her time as a slave laborer in a Czech concentration camp, Fanny Wald frequently stood up and provided protection to the camp's ill and frail members. My digital artwork seeks to portray these acts of selflessness and perseverance. The dehumanization of the numerous prisoners in concentration camps is symbolized by the numerical identities of the individuals Fanny is attempting to defend. The barbed wires encircling the two hands reflect the repercussions Fanny faced from her compassionate deeds. The red poppies in the background represent Fanny's unwavering hope for a peaceful future. When combined, these components represent a resolve to fight for justice and a motivational narrative that we can all take inspiration from. 

Tesla STEM senior Likitha Nanduri took the top spot in the grades 9-12 art division. She wrote the following about her piece: 

In tribute to Eva Tannenbaum Cummins' indomitable spirit, this piece is a representation of her remarkable journey. Emerging from shattered glass, reminiscent of a bullet hole, is the silhouette of triumph—a portrayal of Eva transcending tragedy to shine as a celebrated theater actress. Beyond the fractured barrier lies a desolate landscape, haunted by echoes of loss— Kristallnacht's remnants, the destruction of thousands of synagogues, her father's death, and leaving her homeland. Amidst this barrenness, delicate rose petals intertwine, symbolizing Eva's reverence for her past and her dedication to honoring and respecting Holocaust victims. Though Eva passed in 2022, through her advocacy, the echoes of the past are heard, encouraging remembrance and resilience for generations to come.

All of the student artists were honored at an award ceremony on June 4. The winning artwork will be on display in the HCH museum space this summer.