Students from Lake Oconee Academy achieved remarkable success at the 2025 Georgia National Fair Fine Arts Competition, earning multiple top honors and showcasing the breadth of talent among our high school artists.
The participating students prepared artwork or photography entries that were judged in competitive categories—some of which included mediums like watercolor, printmaking, sculpture and photography. Several students earned top-tier placements and many others received honorable mentions for their outstanding work.
Debbie Vogel, longstanding art teacher at LOA, shared that the recent experience goes far beyond the awards themselves. “Events like the Georgia National Fair give our students a unique opportunity to grow and shine as artists,” Vogel said. “It is an incredible learning experience for students to see their work exhibited among their peers across the state of Georgia. Whether they receive a reward or not, students are able to see their work displayed in a professional setting, receive feedback from judges, and connect with other creative students from across the state. It builds confidence and reinforces the idea that what they’re learning in the classroom has real- world value.”
She added that this year’s success is only the beginning, “I had many students who came back inspired for working on pieces for the exhibit for next year”. With more students entering state- level competitions and LOA’s art classes continuing to emphasize creativity across a variety of mediums, the program is poised to keep inspiring young artists and showcasing their talent in the years ahead.
Outstanding Awards and Recognitions
9th grade:
• Yamiley Perez — 1st place and Best in Category in watercolor
• Ella Riddle — 1st place in printmaking
• Raelyn Sukhbir — 1st place in “other sculpture” category
10th grade:
• Lola Slaughter — Honorable Mention
• Landon Macneill — 1st place in monochrome photography
• Jillian Gruszynski — 3rd place in monochrome photography
• Clara Nelson — Honorable Mention in color photography
11th grade:
• Janey Soto — 3rd place in printmaking
• Lily Doe — 3rd place in other sculpture
• Leighann Padgett — Honorable Mention in marker
• Autumn Ralston — Honorable Mention in acrylic
• Rhys Williams — Honorable Mention in monochrome photography
12th grade:
• Kinzie King — 3rd place in color photography
These results reflect not only the creativity but the technical skill and dedication of LOA’s young artists as they competed against peers from across the state in a juried exhibition. The Georgia National Fair is known for its statewide fine arts competitions, where artists of all levels exhibit work in painting, sculpture, photography and more.
Congratulations to all of our participants and award winners — your achievements are a source of pride for our entire community!