Up With Trees was thrilled to receive many creative pieces from talented young artists in our 1st Annual Art Contest for Tulsa youth. While it was a challenge to narrow our creative entries to a grand prize winner and four honorable mentions, we found some pieces that really caught our eyes.

The theme for the inaugural 2009 year was “Trees in the City.”  Artworks were judged by how well the artist interpreted the theme in their artwork, and how well it was explained in a brief artist statement.  Entries included drawings, paintings and photographs.

Grand Prize Winner

“Tree City” By Alex Tow, 1st Grader

Zarrow International School

"Trees give us oxygen and shade. We cannot live without them."

Honorable Mentions

“A City’s Organic Side” By Anthony J. Velasco, 5th grader

Lindbergh Elementary School

"My picture is supposed to show that every city no matter how big or small can have nature in it. Even though this city is large and has a lot of glass, concrete, and buildings, it still has room to have trees, playgrounds, and animals. This park is supposed to be a surprise to find in this large city."

“Trees Make the City Pretty” By Austin Oden, 1st grader

Lindbergh Elementary School

"Trees make the city pretty."

“Peace in the City” By Rebekah Lynne Borger, 5th grader

Home School

"Trees often soften the tone of the city and make the cities seem more inviting, calmer, and peaceful. Plus they provide homes for many animals like squirrels, racoons, and birds."

“Trees In My City” By Jerome Walker, 1st grader

Lindbergh Elementary School

"Trees keep our air clean. They are homes for all kinds of animals."

“Trees on 15th” By Tialani Stoner, 2nd grader

Lanier Elementary School

"Trees in the city make roads pretty, make traffic noise quieter, and give us oxygen to breathe."

Alex Tow was selected as the Grand Prize Winner for his artwork, “Tree City.”  Alex received a $25 check for his winning entry and will have his work reproduced in the Up With Trees newsletter. Alex connected his artwork to this year’s theme of “Trees in the City” by explaining that “Trees give us oxygen and shade.  We cannot live without them.”

Our Honorable Mention Winners are:  Rebecca Lynne Borger, Austin Oden, Anthony J. Velasco, Tialani Stoner and Jerome Walker.  All of the winning entries will be displayed in the UWT office located on the southwest corner of 11th & Boston.  Thank you to all who entered and we look forward to more creative entries in 2010!

Many of our programs are provided at no charge, but are supported entirely through generous donations. If you would like to help us continue our valuable efforts, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Up With Trees. You may send a check to: 1102 S. Boston Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119, or donate securely online.