We’re pleased to announce that Marian Louise Callanta and Gillian Maurer are the winners of the 2016 Neiman Marcus Holiday Ornament Project. This competition was open to students who submitted work in the fashion and jewelry categories of the 2016 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Marian and Gillian will have their designs transformed into small, 3D ornaments and distributed to Neiman Marcus stores across the country at the end of 2016.

Marian Louise Callanta of Glendale, CA, attends Glendale High School. She recently said, “I hold a passion for all kinds of art. Usually, I paint abstract expressionist paintings using oils and other materials to create texture. In addition, I enjoy ceramics and have been working on a jewelry line that focuses on mixing media, like metal, polymer clay, and wood.”

In choosing the subject matter for her winning design, Marian said, “I believe turtledoves are so beautiful and bring life to the holiday season.”

Gillian Maurer of Weaverville, NC, attends School of Inquiry & Life Sciences at Asheville High School. She recently said, “I am a dancer, aerialist, fine artist, and aspiring fashion designer and illustrator. I would really like to make a career of combining my passions.”

In speaking about the inspiration for her ornament design, Gillian said, “My design draws in the beauty of nature. Birds are a symbol of peace and love, so they embody the feeling of giving.”

To make their sketches come to life, Marian and Gillian will work with a professional sculptor to translate the 2D design into a 3D design. They will also be featured in Neiman Marcus’s national publication, the book, and have their signature on the back of the ornament. In addition, they will both receive a $1,000 scholarship.

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are proud to have partnered with Neiman Marcus for this special project. Thanks to Neiman Marucs for supporting young artists like Marian and Gillian.