Both students are incredibly talented artists who stand out at area art competitions, said Lincoln-Way East art teacher Dale Sandoval. Bertucci, for example, who has one of the top 5 high school Scholastic portfolios in the country, recently received first place in Mokena’s sculpture contest while Erik took home second.

The Spring Art Show, which gives students an opportunity to showcase the artwork they have been working on this school year, was held April 28-May 2 at the school. Art teachers from Plainfield Central High School served as the judges.“It is really the only time art students have to shine, said Colette Rinn, chair of the district’s art department. “Their culminating performance, if you will.”

Bertucci, who was recently recognized as one of the 12 most talented writers and artists in America, will graduate from Lincoln-Way East knowing one of his pieces will be retained by his alma mater and proudly displayed near the school auditorium.

Superintendent Dr. Lawrence Wyllie, who picks one item from the art show each year for purchase and display, selected Bertucci’s portrait from nearly 400 entries.
“He’s obviously got a talent,” said Wyllie, who plans to frame Bertucci’s self-portrait and add it to the school’s permanent collection.

“His stuff does stand out,” he added, “and it’s time we had a piece of his work in our lobby.”
Bertucci received $100 for the portrait as well as a trophy.

It’s not the first piece he has sold for display. The high school artist already has one piece on display in New York and another at Robert Morris College.

“It’s a great feeling (to have your work displayed),” said Bertucci, who plans to attend Laguna College for Art and Design in Laguna Beach, Calif. and major in illustration.
Norwich, who has been accepted to University of Illinois at Chicago, received the highly coveted Scholarship Award at the Spring Art Show. The award is presented to a senior who has been accepted at a junior college, art school or university and plans to major or minor in art.

As recipient of the Scholarship Award, Norwich will receive $100 from the school’s Art Club. He plans to pursue a career in graphic design, possibly owning his own business one day.
“I haven’t decided on that for sure,” he said, “but it would be a cool idea.”