About 100 Kansas high school students flocked to Barton Community College to get hands-on experience from Barton’s art professionals and participate in a juried art exhibit on Thursday.
The Vortex exhibit featured entries in a variety of mediums from painting to various 3D entries. The exhibit serves as the framework for Vortex Day, which is designed to stimulate and enhance students’ interest and excitement in the arts.  Students participated in various workshops presented by Barton faculty and staff and ranged from a ceramic workshop to a session on photographic lighting techniques.
The day culminated with an awards show in the Shafer Gallery to recognize the Vortex Exhibit winners in a variety of categories.  The Barton Foundation awarded three $500 scholarships to the Best in Show winners for 2D and 3D and the Director’s Choice Award.
Best in Show 3D was awarded to David Thomson from Larned High School for his untitled piece.
Best in Show 2D was awarded to Shelby Shelor from Hoisington High School for her piece “Diamond of Fire.”
Director’s Choice was awarded to Jordan Moore from Hoisington High School for her airbrush piece “Curiosity of the Wind.”