Since the start of the Annual Art Show on Jan. 26, the library and B building are displaying many SMCHS art students’ works. Through these paintings and projects, students deliver messages, tell stories and display their talents.

A painting titled “Cat” by sophomore Mary Botros stands out to students, because of its detailed and unique brush work and the great balance of color.

Mary started to study visual art when she was in first grade. One important partner on her art journey is her younger sister, freshman Katrina Botros.

Mary and Katrina took after school art classes together  while in elementary school. They then painted at their aunt’s studio until coming to SMCHS, where they joined the art program.

“Growing up, Mary and I always worked on assignments together,” Katrina said. “Art is something that me and my sister share and therefore it is very special to us.”

Art has always been a part of Botros family. Mary and Katrina usually get inspired by their family members while painting or creating an art piece. When preparing art for the show, Mary was inspired to paint “Cat” by her oldest sister, Naomi.

“Naomi’s classy attitude and love of quirky fashion inspired me, so I decided to represent them through my animal/human mashup,” Mary said.

This is Mary’s second time participating in the art show. She is not as nervous as last year, but still holds high expectations for herself.

“I love the feeling of confidence I got when I saw my art on public display,” Mary said. “I especially appreciated how all kinds of unique art were put out to inspire as an artist or admirer.”

Even though her sister Katrina did not participate in the art show this year, she was impacted by the effort that Mary put into her piece and the great outcomes. Katrina looks forward to participating in next year’s art show with Mary and all of her visual art classmates.

“I’m extremely proud of my sister and her painting,” Katrina said. “I can’t wait to participate in the show with my sister next year because I’ve always aspired to be as good of an artist as my sister is, and she is the reason I have continued till now.”

Mary and Katrina both agree that art is a way for them to express themselves and they enjoy having the freedom to represent their thoughts and tell stories through their art pieces.

“Art has been a huge part of my life,” Katrina said. “It is a trait that makes me unique and I hope to grow and learn through the art program at SM.”

Mary and Katrina both want to incorporate art into their life in the future even if they do not make it a career. Art helped them to form a strong sisterly bond and they will continue to express themselves through their work.

“I want my art to get people to know who I really am whether I paint a place I’ve traveled, a person who is close to me or a cause that I believe in,” Mary said. “I would like my art to inspire my friends and people who see it to make their own art and express themselves in the same way.”