EL MONTE – El Monte High School freshman Elizabeth Gonzalez Canales has received a full scholarship to the prestigious Ryman Arts Program, where she will receive supplementary art instruction, enrichment and support during the spring 2022 semester.

Canales grew up watching her uncle create works of art, which ignited her passion and talent for the arts at an early age. In fifth grade, she began teaching herself how to draw, using the environment around her as inspiration.

“I’ve always liked to challenge myself to draw as realistically as possible – hands, faces, trees and landscapes,” Canales said. “As I’ve developed my skills, I realize I can incorporate many art forms and styles into my art. I am very proud of myself for being able to learn as much as I have in such a short amount of time.”

This school year, Canales’ work has been noticed by many in and out of the classroom. She is the resident artist of her homeroom and the project manager for all door decorating contests held on campus. Canales has also challenged her artistic limits by taking on commissions for her artwork. When the spring invitational for Ryman Arts was sent to her visual arts educator Saul Aguilera, he encouraged her to apply for the program and wrote a recommendation letter on her behalf.

“From day one, Elizabeth displayed great talent and it’s only the beginning for her,” Aguilera said. “With this opportunity of being accepted into the Ryman Arts Program, it will allow her to experience learning from other artistic professionals in a studio art environment at the university level.”

Established in 1989, the Ryman Arts Program is a nonprofit organization that offers intensive out-of-school studio art instruction, college and career guidance, art supplies and support for services at no cost to students. Canales will attend El Monte High School during the week, and take weekend courses through the Ryman Arts Program offered at Cal State Fullerton beginning Feb. 26.

In the future, Canales said she wants to use her talent to become a tattoo artist, creating works of art for people that will last forever.

“We are so proud to have such a talented young artist like Elizabeth on our campus,” El Monte High School Principal Eddie Cuevas said. “El Monte High School aims to inspire our students to pursue their passions and develop the skills that will prepare them for success as they begin the next chapter of life after high school.”

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EMUHSD_ELIZABETH_ART_1: El Monte High School freshman Elizabeth Gonzalez Canales has received a full scholarship to the prestigious Ryman Arts Program, where she will receive supplementary art support in a studio art environment at the university level.