Riki Rolof proudly stands beside her masterpiece—the enchanting chalk pastel depiction of the northern lights illuminating the mountains.

A talented grade 10 student at Swan Hills School has left her mark on the school’s library with a breathtaking art project that captures the magic of the northern lights. Riki Rolof, a budding artist with a passion for creativity, dedicateda month of her time to craft a stunning chalk pastel picture that now graces the library’s bulletin board.

Riki, who is currently enrolled in an art options course at the school, has always had an interest in artistic expression. Beyond her love for drawing and painting, Riki also actively contributes to the school’s library through a work experience program. It was during this time that librarian Alicia Dyck recognized Riki’s artistic flair and approached her with a special request.

Alicia, impressed by Riki’s artistic talents, asked her to create an art piece depicting the northern lights for the library’s bulletin board. Undeterred by the challenge, Riki eagerly accepted the task and embarked on a creative journey fueled by determination and a desire to showcase the beauty of the aurora borealis.

Riki’s achievement is even more remarkable because she had never experimented with chalk pastels before. Undaunted, Riki took it upon herself to learn the technique through online resources. Armed with YouTube tutorials and extensive internet research, Riki taught herself the intricate art of chalk pastels.

Despite being a newcomer to the medium, Riki poured her heart and soul into the project during her free periods at school. Her dedication paid off, resulting in a captivating piece that captures the essence of the northern lights casting their ethereal glow over the majestic mountains.

Riki’s commitment to her craft did not go unnoticed. The hours she spent on the library project will be credited towards her art course, a recognition of her hard work and dedication to her artistic endeavours. Her favourite subject, Language Arts, complements her artistic pursuits, showcasing the depth of her creative talents.

The library’s bulletin board now stands as a testament to Riki’s artistic prowess, attracting positive feedback from students and staff alike. Humbled by the response, Riki expressed her happiness in having her art prominently displayed in a space that encourages exploration and learning.

As for her future in the world of art, Riki remains open-minded. She sees herself continuing to explore her creative passions but is uncertain about where her artistic journey might lead. Regardless, her talent and dedication are sure to take her far, inspiring those around her and leaving an indelible mark on Swan Hills School.

In the remote town of Swan Hills, Riki Rolof’s northern lights masterpiece serves as a reminder of the boundless creativity residing within the community’s youth and the potential for greatness that can emerge when they are encouraged to shine.