Self Portrait Wins Gold Key Award

Grand Avenue’s Elaine Li Awarded Gold Key

Grand Avenue Middle School eighth grader Elaine Li has received a Scholastic Art & Writing Gold Key award for her self-portrait painting.

Li has an interest in various art forms and has pursued classes outside of school for some time.

“I have a dream of becoming a fashion designer,” she added.

Principal Carlo Conte referred to Li’s piece as “magnificent” and thanked her art teacher, Michael Di Nucci, for his “guidance, experience and care in the classroom.”

“Elaine is a remarkably talented and self-motivated student,” added Di Nucci.

A copy of her winning self-portrait is on display outside the main foyer.

Elaine Li Self Portrait

Photos courtesy of Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

Elaine Li

Students in grades 7-12 receiving Gold Keys, Silver Keys, Honorable Mentions or American Visions & Voices Nominations are celebrated within their communities through local exhibitions and ceremonies.

Gold Key works are then judged nationally by an impressive panel of creative-industry experts to receive National Medals. In addition to her $500 scholarship for her regional placement, Li said the national awards offer up to $10,000 in prizes. Results will be made available on March 23.