Several Lake Placid Middle-High School students were honored for their Olympic-themed artwork at the Lake Placid Olympic Center on Tuesday. The Al Oerter Foundation’s “art in sport” competition saw over 300 entries from five different countries, with Lake Placid students showcasing their creativity alongside peers from Colorado Springs.
Among the winners were Stella Hoffman, Sophie Cunniff, Rhaya Torrance, Ella Wilson, Briar Beaney, Eliza Fitzsimmons, and Matthew Corcoran. The students were recognized for their unique interpretations of Olympic sports and history, with Corcoran emphasizing the unity between past and present Games through vibrant colors.
In addition to individual awards, Lake Placid fourth-grade students collaborated on an Olympic-themed mural that will be displayed in the office of Paris’s seventh arrondissement mayor during the 2024 Summer Olympics. The students researched Olympians and Paralympians, as well as the differences between the 1924 and 2024 Games, incorporating these elements into their artwork.
Eliza Fitzsimmons’ painting highlighted the evolution of diving, while Briar Beaney focused on track events and changing uniforms. The students’ dedication to their craft and research not only earned them recognition but also provided valuable insights into the mindset of athletes and the creative process.
The ceremony at the Olympic Center, attended by school officials and Olympic representatives, celebrated the students’ achievements and showcased the intersection of art and sports. The students’ artwork will continue to inspire others as it travels to Paris for the upcoming Summer Olympics, bridging the gap between past and present Games through their imaginative interpretations.
