Minneapolis-based artist Peyton Scott Russell has a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and for more than 3 decades he has been a professional artist and arts instructor. The 1984 film, Style Wars, introduced Peyton to graffiti art and the world of hip-hop. This had a profound effect on him and changed the course of his artistic endeavors. 
 
In the 1990s Peyton introduced graffiti art as a fine art in the Twin Cities through gallery exhibitions and teaching in after-school programs. His current organization, SPRAYFiNGER, is dedicated to teaching, studying, and practicing graffiti and the Art of Creative Lettering. His mission, in addition to his personal artistic practice, is to increase awareness of graffiti as a teachable fine art and deepen the understanding of the medium. Peyton has engaged with multiple generations of individuals throughout the United States as well as in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Tel Aviv, Israel. 

Cailyn Choi, a stationary geek and art enthusiast, is currently a junior at Lakeside School in Seattle, Washington. She loves all kinds of arts—drawing and painting, photography, mixed media, and more—and will take any opportunity she can get to make something creative! Cailyn believes art is one’s voice and way of expression, and she encourages everyone to use their creativity, regardless of skill level, to participate in something artsy. Whether it’s cooking or baking, drawing, singing, playing an instrument, dancing, or anything else, Cailyn hopes people can find their creative outlet for speaking their truth through creativity. She has also recently become interested in video making and vlogging, and she looks forward to exploring new artistic styles in the upcoming year. When she is not at school or in the studio, she loves to golf with her friends and family or take naps with her Maltese. 

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.