Kids share their holiday homes in Habitat for Humanity’s Youth Art Contest

Colorado County Habitat for Humanity showcased “Home for the Holidays” themed artwork from children across the county during a reception, Thursday, Aug. 21, at the Live Oak Art Center in Columbus.

Colorado County Habitat for Humanity runs the contest annually with a theme about homes and housing. Executive Director Charmaine Katz said she runs the contest to be invested in the community and to emphasize the importance of art.

“Our goal has always been to get to know the youth and to have the youth get to know us. They’re our future,” Katz said. “…The more the community knows us, the more we can enroll our mission…Housing is a universal problem, a universal need.”

Katz said that she received over 900 entries last year, so this year she asked the schools to narrow down the entries before submitting them to her. The gallery, hosted at the Live Oak Art Center, features 76 curated art pieces. Live Oak Art Center President Renee Long said that she’s proud to work with Habitat for Humanity.

“We welcome them with open arms,” Long said. “A lot of those kids are in our art classes, and [Habitat for Humanity is] doing something completely amazing.”

Columbus Mayor Lori An Gobert, Eagle Lake Mayor Tim Kelley and Weimar Hill Bank and Trust Senior Vice President Peggy Guenther judged the contest. Gobert said she was happy to help.

“[The program] is an extension to art and creativity that can be really beneficial to all of these age groups, and I was honored to be a judge,” Gobert said.

Ava Hudec, an eighth grader from Columbus Junior High, won Best of Show for the entire contest.

Katz said Habitat for Humanity will feature select art pieces on Christmas and holiday cards this year to help fundraise. For next year’s theme, Katz said Gobert suggested Texas Home or Haunted Home.

“We’re pretty excited. We are going to ask the community which one they prefer for next year,” Katz said. “…What the kids are going to come up with is awesome.”