Maisie Derlega, a recent graduate from Jackson-Reed High School, emerged victorious in the national Doodle for Google Contest 2024. Her winning submission earned her $55,000 in scholarships and secured a $50,000 technology package for her former high school. The contest required students to reimagine the Google logo based on the theme of envisioning their aspirations for the next 25 years through art.
Derlega’s winning design depicted the bustling Sunday dinners hosted at her house, serving as a gathering place for friends and family amid chaos, laughter, and delectable aromas. These weekly dinners, initiated during the pandemic, saw various relatives coming together to enjoy the scrumptious meals prepared by her father. The tradition not only brought loved ones closer but also fostered a sense of community and connection among them.
Inspired by the importance of these family gatherings, Derlega crafted a visual representation capturing the essence of these dinners. Illuminated by the golden hour light, the artwork showcased a table laden with food and animated hands engaged in various activities, symbolizing the vibrant dynamics of the communal meal. Reflecting on her fond childhood memories revolving around food and creativity, Derlega highlighted the significance of culinary experiences in bonding with her family, particularly her father, who is a chef.
While the doodle encapsulates a specific tradition within her family, Derlega aimed for broader resonance, hoping that viewers across the nation could identify with the themes of love, togetherness, and community depicted in her artwork. Emphasizing the importance of cherishing familial bonds and shared experiences, she sought to convey a universal message of unity and appreciation for loved ones.
Derlega, an aspiring artist and designer, shared her excitement on being selected as the contest winner and revealed her plans to pursue further studies in art and design at the University of Michigan. With dreams of creating illustrations for prominent media outlets in the future, she expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her talent and convey meaningful narratives through her artwork.
As Derlega embarks on this new chapter in her academic journey, her success in the Doodle for Google Contest stands as a testament to her artistic vision and creative prowess. By infusing personal stories and sentiments into her designs, she exemplifies the power of art to evoke emotions, spark connections, and resonate with audiences on a profound level. Through her captivating doodle, Maisie Derlega has not only secured educational support for her future but also left a lasting impression on viewers, inspiring them to cherish the bonds of family and community in their own lives.
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https://wtop.com/dc/2024/06/dc-high-schooler-wins-national-doodle-for-google-competition-with-portrait-of-super-chaotic-family-dinners/