3 U.S. Student Creations Showcased from the ISS
During his mission to the International Space Station (ISS) Axiom Space Astronaut and Pilot John Shoffner announced the final selections of his International Space Art and Poetry Contest. From 250 miles above Earth, Shoffner showcased a sample of the 930 entries from 26 countries from students who answered the question - What would it look like if we lived in space?”
Surrounded by floating colorful artwork and thoughtful words inside the Cupola, Shoffner named six chosen representatives (one art and one poetry selection from each age group), all hand-selected by an esteemed panel of judges, including Ax-2 Commander Peggy Whitson, science educator Kaci Heins, and artist/poet Monique Lorden. Students were scored based on thematic accuracy, interpretation, overall impression, and more. The contest was hosted in collaboration with Limitless Space Institute and Crayola Experience.
“Your creativity has inspired my perspective on space in ways I never imagined,” said Shoffner from the ISS. “Your big ideas, bright colors, and thoughtful words have served as a gentle reminder to hold onto that wide-eyed curiosity that often escapes us over time.”
Category Representatives:
Ages 5-8
Art: Advik, India, “Outer Space Colonization”
Poetry: Cameron, Ireland, “A Dream Come True”
Ages 9-13
Art: Sol Paul Charris, Philippines, “Space Travel”
Poetry: Mel, USA, “Peace Among the Stars”
Ages 14-18
Art: Sabrina, USA, “Home Away from Home”
Poetry: Arjun, USA, “Where Stars Shine with Eternal Light”
Shoffner is a life-long space enthusiast. At 8-years-old, he formed a young astronauts club with his friends in his hometown of Middlesboro, Kentucky. His wild ambition to become an astronaut never escaped him. In fact, he held onto a painting he created at 10 years old of an astronaut floating in space. This very painting has served as the inspiration for the International Space Art and Poetry Contest.
In addition to hosting the global contest, Shoffner is building a curriculum for middle school STEAM education that will include dynamic demonstrations aboard the ISS with his Commander and one of America’s most accomplished astronauts, Dr. Peggy Whitson. Along with the curriculum that will reach classrooms in the fall, John will be personally investing in select schools to fund STEAM certifications. Shoffner hopes to help shape the future of space exploration and showcase the value that space commercialization brings to Earth. Most importantly, he encourages young minds to fulfill their calling.
Video announcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkhSFD8IwCI&t=72s
Still imagery: https://rb.gy/9fyqj
Visit www.spaceartcontest.com for more.
