Mayor Peter Marchetti of Pittsfield celebrated the annual Berkshires Jazz Student Art Contest winners. First place went to Brooklyn Duck, a junior at PHS who created colorful artwork inspired by jazz music and her teacher, Lisa Ostellino. Senior Nye Stedman’s piece featuring cats and sophomore Karalin Melendez’s bold and colorful creation also earned recognition.
Mayor Marchetti praised the students’ artwork at City Hall, emphasizing the festival’s importance to the community. The Berkshires Jazz Festival, which will take place from April 18 to 28 in Downtown Pittsfield, promises various events for all to enjoy.
The judges, whose identities remained anonymous, commended Duck’s intricate figures and Stedman’s playful composition. Melendez’s use of bold colors also received praise. Edward Bride, President and founder of Berkshires Jazz, thanked Mayor Marchetti for supporting the student art contest.
Art teacher Lisa Ostellino expressed pride in her students’ participation, highlighting the contest’s educational value and emphasis on jazz’s universal appeal.
Stedman, a jazz band member, shared his passion for jazz and cats in his artwork, while Melendez emphasized her love for vibrant colors and musical elements. Additionally, for their outstanding artwork, Brenna Bellefontaine, Ari Berard, Tierra Darrisaw, John Mullen, and Amaya Rennie were honorable mentions.
In Pittsfield, art and music thrive as students express their creativity and love for jazz through their impressive artwork.
