Contest offers high school students opportunity for artistic expression

Your local Coca-Cola bottler is pleased to announce the call for entries for this year's Coca- Cola Presents: Art of Harmony Eco-Project.

Budding artists in high schools throughout the greater Houston and Southeast Texas area could win the opportunity to have their creations displayed on an art tour courtesy of Coca-Cola and new corporate sponsor Wal-Mart.

The competition is designed to encourage and reward the artistic talents of students in grades 9-12, with winners receiving U.S. Savings Bonds and cash awards, as well as exposure for their work.

In addition, the educator with the most student entries receives a computer and software for the classroom. The total value in prizes for students and teachers is approximately $14,000.

The Art of Harmony Art Tour will showcase 12 winning art works from the area (three winners and nine honorable mentions) in public areas such as local libraries, museums, malls and business centers.

Entry kits currently are being mailed directly to all area high schools. High school students can also call the Art of Harmony toll-free number 800- 556-6754.

The competition began Feb. 1. Entries must be received by April 4.

Information about the program will be displayed in all participating Wal-Mart stores beginning March 3 and running through April 4. A panel of judges comprised of local artists, art educators, community and business leaders, elected officials and Coca-Cola representatives will select the winners. The winners will be announced and awards presented at a winners' reception at the Hobby Center in downtown Houston on June 3.

Students can use any medium - paint, markers, airbrush, stained glass, sculpture, photography, computer graphics and mixed media.

"Art of Harmony is a great scholarship opportunity for high school students that encourages artistic self-expression while promoting the theme," said Bruce Morrison, sales center manager, El Campo Coca-Cola Bottling Company. "With additional support from our retail partner Wal-Mart, this program will continue to be a part of Coca-Cola's commitment to education and giving back to the community. We want the students to express themselves, reach their artistic potential and be able to reach a college education."

Last year more than 1,700 high school students from the greater Houston and southeast Texas areas participated in the program.