Artist Connections: Open Studio Conversation With Kaviya Ravi

Kaviya Ravi is an Indian American artist, maker, designer, biochemist, and small business owner. She has lived half of her life in Southern India and now lives in the United States. She is a mixed-media artist and maker who loves to learn and explore new media and techniques. Everything she creates is “Unapologetically Colorful,” and working with her hands brings her the greatest joy. Her motto is to live a silly, simple life, and this philosophy is reflected in her interiors, art, and all her designs. Most days, you can find her exploring the world with her partner and her pup or creating colorfully whimsical things in her little home studio in Louisville, Kentucky. She was a contestant on NBC’s Making It, and her colorful home has been featured on various design blogs and magazines. 
 

Chidera Oforkansi is currently a senior at George Bush High School. With a strong passion for the visual arts, she strives to create pieces that depict the daily struggles of people and the faults of society. This strong passion for art led her to join NAHS during her freshman year and she has stuck with the program ever since, evolving not only as an artist, but also as a person. Being in NAHS has transformed the way Chidera approaches leading others by pushing herself to become a compassionate and patient leader. Chidera hopes to someday become an artist who tackles challenging topics in unconventional ways while spreading her love of the visual arts to the rest of the world. 

Joshua Haynes is a passionate visual artist and student leader from Southaven, Mississippi. He serves as president of his school’s National Art Honor Society, founder and president of the Photography Club, and vice president of both the National Honor Society and Key Club. A dedicated thespian and member of the Orpheum STAR Council, Joshua also represents students as a youth representative on the Southaven Mayor’s Youth Council and as a Big Future and school ambassador. He loves creating portraits, and his photography has been exhibited at venues including the Mid-South Fair, Northwest Community College, Desoto Arts Council High School Exhibition, Brooks Museum, and the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, where he has received multiple accolades. An HSF Scholar, AP Scholar, and NCTE Superior recipient, Joshua balances academics, leadership, and creative pursuits while pursuing his goal of becoming a professional photographer. His portfolio and projects can be viewed at lensofjoshua.com.

Klara Schnore is a junior at Kutztown High School in Berks County, Pennsylvania. She is a passionate advocate for the importance of art education in schools. She believes art fosters individuality, supports mental health, and encourages creative problem solving. Klara currently serves as president of the Kutztown High School National Art Honor Society and she previously held the role of class president for 2 years. She is a dedicated student athlete and participates in three varsity sports. She is also the proud recipient of the prestigious Jack Coggins Memorial Award for her creativity and innovation. Klara is also a member of the student council and an active community volunteer. During the summer, she loves devoting a week to help out at a local art camp for younger children. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a degree in museum studies and art conservation, where she can preserve works for future generations to appreciate.

Ella Grail is currently a junior at Ames High School, located near Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. She is a driven artist with an extensive contest and exhibit history. She has been an active and engaged participant in NAHS and NJAHS starting in 2021. During those years, she has done substantial service, including The Memory Project, Hospice Project, and volunteering at local art events. Throughout her time in NAHS, she has risen to a leadership position for her school’s chapter. Highlights for Ella have included being the state winner for Doodle for Google, attending the first National Art Honor Society Conference, and becoming a two-time finalist for the Unsung Heroes project. 

Olivia Valenti is a senior at Kent Island High School. In the future, she hopes to attend a 4-year college to major in studio art and education. Her favorite art media to create with are gouache and oil pastel. Olivia’s dream since 2nd grade has been to become an elementary school art teacher so she can use her passion to inspire and help children discover their voices. She loves art because it has allowed her to build confidence in all areas of her life, and she uses art and creativity to express her love for the people and things around her. Olivia also incorporates art into her after school activities and community service work. Her goal is to spread the benefits of art into >span class="NormalTextRun SCXW254766077 BCX0"> community and she’s excited to use her voice to further advance the National Art Honor Society!