Spotlight on the Arts

Garrett Brown, Noxon Elementary

Interviewed by Karen Thorson

This was a year of "firsts" for Garrett Brown, age 11, in the fifth grade at Noxon Elementary School. This is the first hunting season in which he is an actual hunter, and this was his first time to create a work of art with melted crayon as his medium. Given his interest in hunting it is no surprise that the subject matter for his art creation is a bugling bull elk, his favorite animal.

Melted crayon, he says, is his favorite medium for a variety of reasons. It is easy, it has an overall shine, and blending colors is quite an exciting process. When asked what is next in his artistic journey, he says all he wants to do is more melted crayon. The process uses standard crayon and a soldering iron to melt and apply it to a sturdy surface, in this case corrugated cardboard. While it takes longer than just coloring with crayon, the final product is striking, resembling an acrylic painting.

Brown is inspired by his 13-year-old brother, who creates both realistic and abstract art, mainly using graphite pencil, sometimes adding color.

To offer recommendations for others interested in art for the first time, Brown says, "Try it! It is fun! If it isn't, put it down." He will soon finish the bull elk artwork, adding a dark sky dotted with stars. He already has new compositions in mind, all including various animals.

Brown's enthusiasm for his art is evident in his animated demeanor, elated voice, and excitement in his eyes. This may be a year of firsts, but certainly not the last. Creativity seems to be a state of mind that suits him and that he will sustain over time.

"Spotlight on the Arts" by The Paradise Center honors and encourages students in the arts by highlighting their talent and acknowledging the support they receive through their schools and teachers.