FRONT PORCH

Neal Communities hosted its 22nd My Favorite Home art contest on Tuesday, December 5 at Emma E. Booker Elementary. Judges from the local community had the tough job of picking winners from the submissions created by the talented students. This heartwarming event has become a tradition for Neal Communities, taking place at a local elementary school nearly every year since 1999.

To prepare for the contest, art teacher Melissa Shaw led students from kindergarten through fifth grade in creating artwork showing their vision of the ideal home. Each grade used a different technique and medium to create their unique homes. Kindergarteners used cardboard to stamp lines and added paint and texture to their homes. First graders used popsicle sticks and paint to explore the found object style of artist Beverly Buchanan. Second graders used clay on cardboard embellished with paint and markers to create gingerbread houses. Third graders created their favorite home paintings in a whimsical style based on Dr. Seuss’ book “The Lorax.” Four graders learned about artist Tyree Guyton’s Heidelberg Project and enhanced their drawings using images from magazines and markers. Fifth graders studied architecture and aesthetics, then drew and painted their ideal beach house.

A small number of community representatives were invited to view the artwork and cast their votes for the winners. During the event, Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities, spoke a few words to the assembled students and parents. The finalists were honored on stage with shiny red commemorative ribbons, then the top winner from each class was presented with a blue ribbon.

“Participating in the My Favorite Home art contest was an amazing opportunity for all of our students,” said Shaw. “What an incredible experience for them to be able to create something extraordinary then see their hard work recognized by so many important members of our community. I am so proud of my students and grateful to Neal Communities for this truly unforgettable experience!”

After announcing the winners, Neal presented a check for $1,500 to the school’s art department.

“We were so thankful to have our school chosen for this event, and we appreciate everyone who came and participated,” said Cameron Parker, principal of Emma E. Booker Elementary School. “The donation will go straight back into the art program to help students have more experiences in the arts. You can see how much it means to them.”

Two final winners will be chosen to be featured on the Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes holiday cards.

“It is so joyful to see the ideas the students have for what makes their favorite home,” said Neal. “We enjoy coming to the school and seeing their artwork, and especially being able to help support Booker Elementary’s art programs and encourage creativity in these students.”

Judges and guests included Lisa Bechtold, executive director of Take Stock in Children; Aly Busse, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium; Dr. Michael P. Crosby, president & CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium; Ron Cutsinger, Sarasota County Commissioner; Monica Donley, founder of Sisters Sowing Seeds; Roscelyn Guenter, director of program services at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and Desoto Counties; Kurt Hoffman, Sarasota County Sheriff; Robyn Marinelli, Sarasota School Board member; Yolanda Mancha, VP of advancement at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and Desoto Counties; Michael Moore, special advisor, office of the president, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium; Cameron Parker, principal of Emma T. Booker Elementary School; Dr. Kristen Ranges, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium; David Rathbun, Sarasota County Fire Chief; Karen Rose, Sarasota School Board member; Jag Rupnarain, president of SimplyDwell Homes; Dr. Rachel Shelley, principal of Booker High School; Mark Smith, Sarasota County Commissioner; Kelsey Whealy, media relation specialist for Sarasota School District; and Amy Yount, president and CEO of Step Up Suncoast.

Visit the photo gallery for a full collection of event images.