South Davidson Students Soar to Success in the Art World
It's not every day that a small high school makes a big impact on the art world, but two talented students from South Davidson Middle and High School are proving that talent knows no boundaries. Over the summer, both were recognized for their artistic achievements—one at the state level and the other on the national stage. Their accomplishments highlight the incredible creative spirit thriving within the Denton community. Kimberly Wyatt, the middle and high school art teacher at South Davidson, is celebrating her 17th year in art education, with the last four years spent at South Davidson. She shared, "Advocating for my students and art program is very important to me. I want to give them as many opportunities as possible."
Makayla Hubbard, a 12th-grade student, was selected to represent the North Carolina Art Educators Association's Region 5 at a prestigious statewide student art exhibit in Raleigh. Her piece, a vibrant magazine collage titled "Take Flight," earned her a spot as one of just 16 students chosen from across the entire state. During a reception, she was given the unique opportunity to meet with Senator Steve Jarvis and Representative Sam Watford. She even received a tour of the senate floor, a rare and memorable experience. Hubbard’s striking collage will now be on display in the General Assembly for one year, serving as a powerful testament to her skill and vision.
Inva Jenkins, an 11th-grade student, also received a monumental honor. She was selected as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for North Carolina’s 6th District. Her stunning pencil drawing, a detailed portrait titled "JFK," was chosen by a panel of judges composed of local leaders. As the winner, Jenkins was awarded two airplane tickets to attend a weekend of events in Washington D.C., courtesy of Southwest Airlines. In the nation's capital, she was greeted by Congressman Addison McDowell and given a tour of the grounds. Her drawing will now hang in the United States Capitol for one year, alongside the winning pieces from congressional districts all over the country.
These two students are a prime example of how dedication and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements, regardless of where you come from. Their work not only represents their individual talent but also shines a bright light on the quality of arts education at South Davidson.
The South Davidson and Denton communities are immensely proud of these young artists. Their success is a source of inspiration for their peers and a reminder that big talent can thrive in even the smallest of towns. Makayla and Inva's artistic journeys are just beginning, and their recent accolades are a powerful launching pad for their future endeavors. They have shown that a canvas, a collection of magazines, or a simple pencil can be used to make a significant statement and a lasting impression on a much larger stage.
