Altar Contest Winners

Garland ISD Art Class Students Shine in Dia de los Muertos Altar Contests

Welcome to the vibrant world of creativity, where Garland ISD art class students brought their artistic flair to the forefront in Garland's Dia de los Muertos Altar Contests. These contests allowed young artists to pay homage to this Mexican tradition by crafting stunning altar creations. In this article, we're thrilled to announce the talented winners of these contests, categorized by elementary through high school age groups, who impressed us with their unique interpretations of Dia de los Muertos altars.

ELEMENTARY

3rd Place^{Desteny Salinas - 5th grade
Spring Creek Elementary

Desteny's altar honors her grandparents, her aunt, her dog Bruno, and her friend Mr. Boo.}

2nd Place^{Michael Lamas - 4th grade
Rowlett Elementary

Michael's altar is a tribute to his dog Caramel, an American Bulldog.}

1st Place
^{Marlyn Rodriguez, Leondro Ruiz, and Dilan Martinez
5th grade
Steadham Elementary

The First Place altar created by three 5th grad students, honors the memory and musical style of Vicente Fernández, a famous Mexican singer known for his contributions to ranchera music.}

MIDDLE SCHOOL

3rd Place^{Jeanny Jones and Anahi Gutierrez
7th grade
Bussey Middle School

Jones and Gutierrez created their altar honoring the life of Sebastian Luna, a North Garland HS student who fought to graduate before he lost his battle with cancer.}

2nd Place
^{Arlen Morales, Katley Gadea, and Abigail Salinas
7th grade

Bussey Middle School

Morales, Gadea, and Salinas created their altar to commemorate the legacy and artistry of Frida Kahlo.}

1st Place
^{Brianna Gomez, Janette Alvarez, and Emma Garcia
7th grade
Bussey Middle School

The First Place altar, created by Gomez, Alvares, and Garcia, pays tribute to the memory of Gabriel Fernandez who ignited justice and change in the family services system.}

HIGH SCHOOL

3rd Place^{Melanie Cortez
11th grade
South Garland High School

Cortez created an altar honoring the life of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, often simply referred to as Selena, a beloved Tejano music icon.}

2nd Place
^{Naaman Forest High School Art Club

The art club created an altar to pay tribute to the family members and friends of its members.}

1st Place
^{Lakeview High School Art Club

The First Place altar, created by the Lakeview HS Art Club, commemorates the legacy of Clemencia Lucena, a Columbian sculptor, painter, artist, critic and activitst.}