4 RI Students Have Award-Winning, Ocean-Themed Art Displayed At URI

KINGSTON, RI — Four Rhode Island children captured first place in their respective age group's in the Ocean View student art competition, organized by the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography (GSO).

The winners were Wesley Stephens of Cranston, Nathaniel James Turshen of East Greenwich, Ellie Edelmann of Warwick, and Madelyn Couto of Tiverton.

Stephens, a second-grader, won for his artwork titled “Swishing Stingers.” Turshen, a fifth-grader, was recognized for his artwork titled “The Ocean’s Beautiful Treasure.” Edelmann, who is in the sixth grade, won for “Extraordinary Wildlife.” Couto’s “Ocean Critters” won the high school division. She is a sophomore. The four students were among the 300 Rhode Islanders in kindergarten through 12th grade to enter the third biennial contest.

All submissions were displayed at the Art League RI gallery in Pawtucket until April 27. The top three pieces of art in each age group are now showcased at GSO’s Ocean Science & Exploration Center, where they may be viewed by the public for at least the next year. The winners will receive their awards at a reception at GSO on a date to be determined.

Students were required to submit a statement of no more than 100 words on the theme “What does ‘The Ocean State’ mean to you?” Their two-dimensional artwork was limited to 24 inches by 36 inches. Suggested art mediums included illustration, painting, mixed media and collage, and photography.

“We’re happy to encourage children to recognize the value of the ocean through creating these works of art,” said Ruth Clegg, president of the board of directors of Art League RI.

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