A Barrie high school student is getting her artwork in front of a national crowd. Kaitlyn Hewett, a Grade 12 student at Maple Ridge Secondary School, has placed first in a Royal Canadian Legion national art contest. She came out on top in the Senior Colour Poster category in the National Youth Remembrance Contests for her painting that depicts two school children walking down a path lined by poppies, alongside soldiers, and all heading towards the sunset and a Canada flag. The piece will be displayed at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa for one year starting this fall. According to the judges, they said there was a clear emotional response to Hewett’s painting. The following are some comments from the judges as told in an email from the Royal Canadian Legion National Headquarters: “The artwork incorporated strong ideas of following in the steps of those who have gone before, of hope in a bright future, as well as spanning generations. It was beautifully executed and conveyed a strong message of grace and hope.” Hewett was also invited to attend and participate in the Remembrance Day Wreath Ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa on Nov. 11. At the ceremony, Hewett will receive $1,000 and a special award plaque.
