By Emi Gruender
Every year as the second semester rolls around, so does the exhibition room near Room 8, filled to the brim with the proudest works of many incredible Westmont artists. This 2026 season boasts 2D + 3D works from the art classes and photos from the photography classes alike. Come meet some winners of the 2026 Westmont’s Got Art competition, and a short interview with the winner of the People’s Choice award, Josie Barker.
People’s Choice: Josie Barker — Sticky Summer
“What inspired you to make this art?”
“I was watching 13 Reasons Why, and I really enjoy being able to bask in the sun. So I asked my friend for a photo at the beach, and she sent me a picture of the beach. ‘Cuz life’s really cute. There was a photo of Kira’s hands I really wanted to paint—that were very sticky—and I finally got a chance to use it!”
“What does this piece mean to you?”
“I really like friends and I like hanging out with friends at the beach. It means happy and joy and sticky summer days with Kira Yurchenko!”
“Give me your background in art.”
“I began art with those 2020 lime lip artists, and ever since then, I kept drawing. It all started in 2020 when I had nothing better to do.”
2D Design Podium
1st Place: Ayla Picart – Cliff Jumping
2nd Place: Ailee Mano – Flow
Judge’s Recognition: Sara Kalangi — Anatomy of Advancement
3D Design Podium
1st Place: Jeslyn Winters
2nd Place: Camila Estrada
Judge’s Recognition: Laura Hah
Digital Photography Podium
1st Place: JP Miranda Ocampo
2nd Place: Max Walker
Judge’s Recognition: Eva Hernandez
2D Design Artworks
1ST PLACE: Cliff Jumping — Ayla Picart
2ND PLACE: Flow — Ailee Mano
JUDGES RECOGNITION: Anatomy of Advancement — Sara Kalangi
3D Design
1ST PLACE: Jeslyn Winters
2ND PLACE: Camila Estrada
JUDGE’S RECOGNITION: Laura Hah
Photography
1ST PLACE: JP Mirando Ocampo
2ND PLACE: Max Walker
JUDGE’S RECOGNITION: Eva Hernandez