Braswell High School’s Visual Arts Department made school history after junior Remi Murphy earned the school’s first-ever Gold Key award in the Scholastic Art Awards, a national competition established in 1923.
Murphy received a Gold Key in photography for her work, “Pharmabox at 5691,” and a Silver Key for “Regular Day.” Her Gold Key-winning piece has advanced to national judging in New York City, with National Medalists to be announced March 25, 2026. Winners will be honored at a ceremony at Carnegie Hall.
Other Braswell students were also recognized in the regional competition. Junior Olga Maiereanu earned an honorable mention in drawing for “Burnout Juggle.” Junior Cricket Rickman received an honorable mention in drawing for “Through a Child’s Eyes.” Senior Alazjah Tates earned an honorable mention in ceramics and glass for “The Strength in Embracing Identity” and a Silver Key in the art portfolio category for “The Significance in Connections.”
The Scholastic Art Awards have recognized notable alumni, including Stephen King, Andy Warhol, Joyce Carol Oates and Amanda Gorman.
School officials said they are proud of the students’ achievements and their contributions to the growing success of Braswell’s visual arts program.
