The Tippecanoe School Corporation Board of School Trustees recognized Battle Ground Middle School eighth grader Mellany Barrett as the winner of the 2026 Student Art Recognition Program contest. Mellany's winning piece is a stunning ink and watercolor composition that draws on iconic imagery from Japanese culture and art history. 

Art teacher Gabriele Appenzeller says Mellany’s artwork immediately stood out. “The way she captured Japanese culture in her work and the composition were exceptional,” says Appenzeller.

The piece features a sweeping cherry blossom branch, a figure in a traditional kimono, a vibrant red torii gate, and a crashing wave reminiscent of Hokusai's famous woodblock prints. It is rendered with fine ink detail and delicate watercolor accents.

Mellany received a $75 award for her work, which is now framed and on display at the TSC Elston Administrative Center.

Mellany says even as a little girl she loved cherry blossoms: “I have always been fascinated with Japanese culture and wanted to incorporate that into this project.”

Mellany plans to take art classes at Harrison High School, hopes to pursue a career incorporating her artistic creativity, and plans to put her prize money toward more art supplies and a donation to her church.

The Student Art Recognition Program began in 1990 and alternates annually between elementary and secondary school entries. Art teachers from each school submit student work, which is reviewed by a panel of art educators and administrators.

Two other students received special recognition: Jayden Zook from Southwestern Middle School and Jonas Olivo from Wea Ridge Middle School.