From Louisville to the White House: Student earns national recognition for artwork
By Joyce Ogirri
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LOUISVILLE, Kentucky (WLKY) — A Louisville elementary school student is getting national recognition this holiday season and a once-in-a-lifetime experience to go with it.
Pippy Raymond earned first place in America250’s America’s Field Trip contest, a nationwide competition asking students a powerful question: What does America mean to you?
Her winning artwork is now part of a beloved holiday tradition in the nation’s capital.
Pippy says being selected among students from across the country is both inspiring and humbling.
“I feel just really inspired and proud that so many kids are doing this and I’m part of this community,” Pippy said.
The America’s Field Trip contest invites students in grades 3 through 12 to share their perspective on America through art.
Nearly two dozen winning designs from across the country have been transformed into ornaments featured on the America250 Tree, displayed beside the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park in Washington, D.C.
Pippy’s artwork reflects her belief in inclusion and opportunity.
“A place where everyone can belong. Where my Black best friend can come vote with me. Where my Muslim neighbors can go anywhere,” Pippy said.
Her ornament depicts Old Faithful in Yellowstone.
“I painted it. It’s supposed to look like Old Faithful,” Pippy explained. “It has a lot of steam coming out. Lots of colors.”
Each ornament highlights iconic landmarks, historic moments and American values.
This year also marks the first time an additional tree, beyond the traditional 58, has been added to the display, as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary next year.
For Pippy, seeing her work displayed alongside her family is a moment she will never forget.
“I’m really proud that my ornament is on this tree. My family gets to come see it with me,” she said.
As part of the competition, Pippy also earned her first-ever trip to New York City.
“I got to go to the Crown and the Statue of Liberty, which was really amazing. I really want to go back one day,” said Pippy.
The America250 Tree is on display through New Year’s Day.
Students in grades 3 through 12 can enter the next America’s Field Trip contest for a chance to have their artwork featured next year.
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