Tamara McConnell

Writer

With the purpose of high school being to find a goal or passion, junior Aubrey Topping is on the right stroke to success.

Topping has set out to spread her artistic talents to the public by entering her painting to Oklahoma’s Law Day contest.

Law Day is an annual competition presented by the Oklahoma Bar Association with an art and writing category each with a set theme students must follow, with this years theme revolving around the 19th amendment, or women’s suffrage.

Grades K-12 are encouraged to enter, and towards the end of February, each grade’s first place winner will be announced and will receive a $150 cash prize, along with a plaque presented to them in a ceremony at the capital.

Topping, having been her grade’s first place winner last year, described who truly inspired her on her artistic path.

“When I was really little, I started drawing, and I knew then that they weren’t very good,” Topping said. “My mom, my grandma and my old church family told me to keep going on though. To encourage me, they always got me art kits for christmas, and I haven’t stopped since.”

Topping also explained what she especially loves about drawing and how aspiring art students can improve on their abilities.

“Drawing helps me think about the things happening in my life, so when I’m angry or emotional, it brings me down to earth,” Topping said. “It’s why I practice so much, but I mess up all the time. If you want to continue on this path, always expect failure because later on you’ll learn from them and find a way to succeed.”

Furthermore, Topping’s artistic talents are also well known among her friends such as junior Rachel Retherford.

Retherford recounted how Topping motivates her and detailed how her abilities are one of a kind.

“Aubrey’s overjoyed attitude and determination inspire me the most,” Retherford said. “She truly amazes me with her unreal skills, and I sure hope she goes far in her career because she deserves recognition and appreciation for her talent.”

With plans of attending college after graduation, Topping aspires to continue her gifts at an animation studio of her choice.