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Crookston Today
By the People, for the People
Crookston High School Artists Shine at Regional Art Festival
Ella Lerum receives top 'Spotlight on the Arts' honor for ceramic work
Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:23pm
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Several Crookston High School students received superior ratings at the 2026 Minnesota State High School League Regional Art Festival in Warroad, with Ella Lerum earning the highest 'Spotlight on the Arts' award for her ceramic piece 'Vacant Moments.' Lerum will now advance to the State Art Festival.
Why it matters
The MSHSL Regional Art Festival is a prestigious competition that showcases the artistic talents of high school students across Minnesota. Crookston High School's strong showing, with multiple students earning top honors, highlights the quality of the school's arts program and the dedication of its student artists.
The details
In addition to Ella Lerum's 'Spotlight on the Arts' award, Crookston High School artists Wendy Chen, Eric Pierson, Memengwaa Sam, Lucas Smith, and Kamryn Proulx all received superior ratings from the festival judges for their work.
- The 2026 MSHSL Regional Art Festival took place in Warroad.
- Ella Lerum's 'Spotlight on the Arts' award will be presented on May 9.
The players
Ella Lerum
A Crookston High School student who received the top 'Spotlight on the Arts' honor for her ceramic piece 'Vacant Moments.'
Wendy Chen
A Crookston High School student who received a superior rating at the MSHSL Regional Art Festival.
Eric Pierson
A Crookston High School student who received a superior rating at the MSHSL Regional Art Festival.
Memengwaa Sam
A Crookston High School student who received a superior rating at the MSHSL Regional Art Festival.
Lucas Smith
A Crookston High School student who received a superior rating at the MSHSL Regional Art Festival.
Kamryn Proulx
A Crookston High School student who received a superior rating at the MSHSL Regional Art Festival.
What’s next
Ella Lerum's 'Spotlight on the Arts' award will be presented on May 9 as she qualified for the State Art Festival.
The takeaway
Crookston High School's strong showing at the MSHSL Regional Art Festival, with multiple students earning top honors, demonstrates the strength and dedication of the school's arts program and student artists.


