On Wednesday October 5th. S.L. H. S. sophomore, America Trujillo was recognized for taking 1st place in the city of Phoenix Domestic Violence Awareness Paint Phoenix Purple Art Contest.  America was rewarded with $250, 2 Phoenix Suns Tickets, and a bag of treats by city official, Sergio Gomez.

SL art teacher, Ms. Dima, and America stand proudly

How proud do you feel to have a student take 1st place?

“I was proud and confident. My kids are really good so I knew she would win,” said Ms. Dima.

America posing happily for her accomplishment

What was your inspiration to make this piece?

“I’ve known many people that have been involved with Domestic Violence,  but this is based on the poem, My Papa’s Waltz. It’s about an abusive father who dances with his child but abused him as well,” said Trujillo.

She also added that she’s been painting since she was 3. Her mother was a model and her dad was a photographer. She claims painting was “built in her.”

Mr.  Sergio Gomez from the city of Phoenix  awarding America

Photo Courtesy of Valentina Dima