This sterling silver/soladite “Grapevine Necklace” received first place honors at the Pittsburgh Technical Institute’s annual Art of Education Show. It was created by Katherine Kaufman, art teacher at Hundred High School.

Katherine Kaufman, art teacher at Hundred High School, recently received first place in the Pittsburgh Technical Institute’s annual Art of Education Show.

Her sterling silver/soladite “Grapevine Necklace” was judged as the best entry from area high school teachers. The works of art were graded Oct. 23 and remain on display now through Nov. 6 in The Gallery at Pittsburgh Technical Institute or can be viewed online under Art of Education at www.pti.edu/events.

Representing schools from Pennsylvania and West Virginia, submissions included paintings, drawings, photography, mixed media, pottery, and jewelry. “We’ve been offering area teachers an outlet to feature their creativity since 2002,” comments Susan Rosa, PTI Director of Visual Communication. “It’s always interesting to see the variety of pieces we receive and rewarding to recognize these talented individuals for their work outside the classroom.”

“There was a very nice crowd at the opening,” she adds. “The winners were clearly pleased and the pride of their friends and family members in attendance was obvious.”

The first place artist received $250 while second and third place were awarded $50 gift certificates. Second place went to Jason Shorr of Seneca Valley High School for “Hoping You’d Hear One Day (Narcisus),” acrylic/mixed media on canvas. Lora Stager of United High School earned third place for her oil painting “Blue Sky”.