Students in Sharon Scharf’s art classes submitted artwork including collages, drawings and scratchboards to the high school art exhibit at the The Big Fresno Fair.

The judges presented awards for the artwork at 7 p.m., Oct. 1. Every submission places either first, second or third, along with some honorable mentions.

In consideration of her classes’ ability, Scharf introduced her students to the art fair as an opportunity to evaluate their talent. She believes every student deserved a chance to compete at the fair, regardless of style.

“Art is very subjective,” Scharf said. “Some years you may think you will win all first prize [awards] but you don’t; it’s the same the other way around.”

The fair displays the art from Oct. 1-13. Following the event, the contestants will have their artwork returned to them.

Freshman Danielle St. Marie received a first place award for her scratchboard of a dog. Although she has competed in art competitions before, this was her first time entering at the fair.

“I placed first at the ACSI Art Festival last spring which was very enjoyable,” St. Marie said. “This is my first time there and I’m very excited to see my piece on display. I’m happy that Mrs. Scharf gives us the chance to be in this competition.”

As his first entrance in the fair, senior John Carreon submitted two scratchboards and won first place awards for both. One scratchboard depicted a country scene while the other illustrated a brooding cowboy.

His scratchboard of the cowboy was awarded Best of Show at the ACSI Art Festival in April of ’08. The artwork’s recognition continues, as it will be displayed at the Ashtree Studios 2008 “Emerging Artists” Exhibition in the Tower District after the fair.

“They choose 20 or so art pieces to put in the show,” Carreon said. “I’m excited because the [cowboy scratchboard] took a while, and it’s nice to get recognition for art.”

In addition to individual submissions, Scharf sent three teams composed of both veteran and new artists to compete in the chalk drawing contest at the fair, Oct. 7. Participants spent the day at the fair and created their drawings from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. with a black 4×4 piece of plywood and chalk.

Contestants designed their drawings to reflect the “Are You Fishing For Fun?” theme of the competition. After judging, the drawings will be sold in a silent auction for fair patrons.

“John [Carreon] and I worked very well together [on our chalk drawing],” senior Mary Sargent said. “Even though we didn’t win, we had a good time.”

For more information, check out Brooding cowboy returns or e-mail Sharon Scharf.