Sergio Ibarra (12) is a diamond in the rough when it comes to painting; although he keeps most of his thoughts to himself, his art tells stories about him in a way that words cannot describe.

  Ibarra is well known in the visual and performing arts department, and his proficiency in art far excels what people would expect of high-school students. His most recent painting was showcased at the winter concert, which revolved around the connection between visual and performing arts. Sergio’s submission was a painted response to the musical piece, “You Are Cordially Invited”, which presented a child with a red balloon.

  “I saw an opportunity to show my artwork; Mr. Coughlin needed some artwork for the concert, so I turned something in,” said Ibarra.

  His most memorable painting was a depiction of his great grandfather; although he does not showcase many of his paintings, one day, he pridefully presented his best artwork to his friends and fellow band members. Despite the fact that the painting was skillfully painted, the story behind the painting allows people to be more appreciative of this art piece.

  “One of the art pieces that I made was for the whole family; it was a painting of my great grandfather. And so, I painted it and gifted it as a christmas present, in 2016. He died December of 2015. It symbolized that he was always with us,” said Ibarra.

  He started experiment with art in middle school after his mother heavily influenced him to attempt different types of illustration.

  “My mom always draws, so that’s what inspired me to draw: to be able to make artwork like her. Once I came to high school, and got into an art class, I started to experience with different mediums; acrylic, oil pastels; but I usually come back to using pencil, like my main thing to go with,” said Ibarra.

 Nevertheless, in his free time, he most especially loves to work around the house for his family. Ever since his childhood, he has developed a fondness for helping others and wishes to continue perpetuating kindness in his adult life.

  “I just draw because it calms me, and I just like doing it. It helps me express myself. But, I don’t really want to go into art school. I would rather be a social worker, but keep doing art on my free time.”

  No matter what his motivations are, or what he wishes to do in the future, Sergio creates his art with every expression he feels. His paintings keep a piece of himself with him, and even with Sergio’s reserved nature, his artwork and the stories behind them makes his silence loud.