Paramount, CA – Paramount senior Noah Endo often begins multiple art projects at once, building on them simultaneously until inspiration takes him in a new direction. But for six and a half months, Endo kept coming back to one piece in particular – a drawing of a Godzilla-like creature looming large over a city.

Endo’s vision and persistence paid off as his creation, titled “A Growing Threat,” earned him first place in the 40th Congressional District’s 25th annual Student Art Competition held by U.S. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard.

For his win, Endo will receive a $1,000 scholarship, $200 for art supplies and a trip to Washington, D.C., for himself and a parent to attend the national exhibit opening. His drawing will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year.

“It’s hard to put into words what it means to win the competition. It’s a big self-esteem boost for my artwork,” Endo said.

Fellow Paramount senior Susana Muñoz took third place in the contest for a color pencil piece titled “Mother Nature.” She will receive a $500 scholarship and $150 for art supplies.

“I am so proud of Noah and Susana for earning this honor with their exceptional artist talents,” Paramount Board President Vivian Hansen said. “I look forward to seeing them grow as artists and contribute work that will inspire the world around them.”

There were 139 entries submitted for the art competition this year. Entries were judged on originality, technical skill, artistic presentation and use of color and contrast.

A year ago, Endo’s work garnered second place in the Roybal-Allard competition.

He said this year’s winning creation was made with color pencil, marker and pen, and informed by his love of Japanese monster characters.

Endo and Muñoz continue a Paramount High School tradition of strong performance in the Roybal-Allard competition. This is the third consecutive year a PHS student has won first place.

“Our students are creating a strong tradition of artistic excellence that continues to build with each year,” Paramount Superintendent Dr. Ruth Pérez said. “I am so proud of all of our young artists, as well as the teachers who nurture their talent and creativity.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

052318_PARAMOUNT_ROYALALLARDART1: Paramount senior Noah Endo holds up his first-place artwork in the 40th Congressional District’s 25th annual Student Art Competition held by U.S. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard, pictured right.

052318_PARAMOUNT_ROYALALLARDART2: Paramount senior Susana Muñoz holds up her third-place artwork in the 40th Congressional District’s 25th annual Student Art Competition, alongside family members and U.S. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard.