Former Guilford Student Selected For Prestigious Art Exhibition

GUILFORD, CT — A former Guilford High School student's artwork has been selected for the 2025 AP Art and Design Digital Exhibition, presented by the College Board, according to an announcement from the school district.

Keoni Mcfee, who graduated from GHS in 2025 and attends the University of Hartford, is among just 51 student artists worldwide chosen from more than 82,000 AP Art and Design portfolios submitted this year, "representing exceptional achievement in inquiry-based, original artmaking," Greenwich Public Schools said in an announcement.

Mcfee’s selected work emerged from his AP Drawing Sustained Investigation, where he explored the relationship between human growth and nature through a distinctive mixed-media style inspired by collage techniques and wild-style graffiti, GPS said.

"By blending wet and dry materials, layered text, expressive markings, and bold color choices, Keoni created complex compositions that reward close observation and invite repeated viewing," the announcement added.

"Much of Keoni’s inquiry was inspired by watching his mother care for plants—recognizing that each one requires specific attention to thrive. This idea became a metaphor for personal growth and self-understanding," GPS said.

One featured artwork shows a human head as a flowerpot, with a bloom emerging from the top—a literal interpretation of a "growth mindset." Another work visualizes the human body as constructed from natural elements, drawing parallels between plant structures and human anatomy to suggest harmony between people and nature.

"In the end, not only did I want to show how beautiful plants really can be, but also how we can be beautiful ourselves, too. The more we acknowledge this notion, the more we can create resonance with nature, inspiring care the same way my mom did," Mcfee said, according to his profile on the AP Art and Design website.

A big factor in Mcfee's artistic growth was his AP art teacher, Megan Cassidy.

"Keoni’s work demonstrates how meaningful art can emerge when students are encouraged to explore ideas that are personal, reflective, and evolving," Cassidy said in an announcement.

GHS Principal Julia Chaffe noted, "We are extremely proud of Keoni and this outstanding accomplishment. His selection for the AP Art Exhibition, along with his work designing last year’s graduation shield, reflects the strength of our visual arts program and our commitment to nurturing young artists."

The school district said GHS "continues to champion the visual arts by showcasing student work in public spaces, including exhibits at the Guilford Free Library and through partnerships with local organizations. Keoni’s selection to the College Board exhibition stands as a testament to the strength of the school’s AP Art and Design program and the creativity of its students."

GPS Superintendent Paul Freeman said Mcfee's accomplishments speak to "the creativity, dedication, and depth of learning we strive to cultivate for all students."

"His work reflects the power of arts education to build confidence, critical thinking, and self-expression," Freeman added.

For more on Mcfee and his artwork, click here.