Under the direction of Sam Chiodo, Roosevelt art instructor, and with the support of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, these five students were selected to create this year’s National Philanthropy Day awards. Each piece is inspired by and embodies the philanthropic spirit of this year’s award recipients. This marks the 19th consecutive year Mr. Chiodo’s students have created artwork to celebrate area leaders in philanthropy. Thank you to Mr. Chiodo and his students for their continued partnership and unique and beautiful additions to this year’s celebration.

Student Awards

Melanie Warren (Oil-abstract)
dsmHack

This work of art is in honor of dsmHack, who have contributed so much to our community, congratulations.  

Matilda Ward (Graphic figure, mixed media)
Wells Fargo 

When I was making this piece, I was mostly thinking how to make a vibrant and clear composition with some effects that were reminiscent of traditional print comics. While I had some initial concepts that were very different the final design, I ended up settling on this composition because I felt was balanced and eye catching. I hope Wells Fargo will enjoy my work in recognition of all their contributions to our community. 

Elena Busick (Leaf collage, mixed media)
Joyce Chapman

The natural world is full of beautiful complexities. This piece uses fall as a lens through which to examine the subtleties of decay and rebirth. The juxtaposition of color and black and white reflects the theme of fall as both a beginning and an ending. Nature itself is a beautiful gift that holds up the whole of society just like your contributions to the greater Des Moines Community. 

Mary Waite (Mixed media collage)
Caroly Corondo-Vargas

This piece was inspired by Ms. Coronado-Vargas’ dedication to the youth in our community. The unorganized oranges and purples streaming in and out of the black and white spaces represent the youth who need community support. The teal rectangles are the building blocks Ms. Coronado-Vargas has worked hard to put into these youths live for them to succeed and live a happier life. With the combined efforts of the aimless oranges and purples and the building block teals, this community can create a space for young people that is safe and encouraging. I hope Ms. Coronado-Vargas enjoys the work in recognition for all of her efforts. 

Sydney Kokke (Leaf, oil pastel)
McGill Junge Wealth Management 

I purposely enlarged the leaf image to focus on the design, pattern and contrasting colors of the leaf (with the background). So to in philanthropy, when we recognize those who contribute to our community, we stay focused on a better future.