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The kudos keep coming for young Shirley artist Keira Amaris.
William Floyd High School’s recently crowned “Artist of the Month” for December had her artwork picked for the cover of the high school’s 2024 yearbook.
Last year, the Parrish Art Museum recognized her as the “One to Watch.” And recently, her work was showcased in the New York State Art Teachers Association’s NYSSBA Exhibit.
The theme of this year’s William Floyd yearbook is “And They’re Off…,” emphasizing the transition of graduates into their futures while retaining their youthful spirit. Amaris’ carousel design, representing various school clubs and activities, earned praise from her art teacher, Theresa Bianco.
“Keira’s eye for detail and a playful use of color is what made this design the perfect cover choice,” said Bianco, chairperson of fine arts for the William Floyd School District.
Apart from local gallery displays, Amaris consistently has received the highest rating on her NYSATA portfolio the last three years. She said her artistic journey began early on in life, driven by a childhood passion for drawing.
“My passion for art began from the moment I could pick up a pencil,” Amaris said. “I have always been the only one in my family that could draw inside the lines really well. My uncle would show me how to really draw.”
Her preferred mediums now include charcoal and pen work.
A BMX star too
Beyond art, Amaris is a nationally ranked BMX racer, placing as high as seventh in her age bracket in the United States. She has been racing for 11 years.
After graduation this June, Amaris plans to pursue graphic design and fine arts in college. She was recently accepted into Savannah College of Art & Design and is hoping to also get into Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and SUNY Purchase.
Photos: Courtesy of William Floyd School District
