Art & Design | Kena

“We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents.”

- Bob Ross  

KHAND_HEADSHOT

Kenna Hand is a proud 2006 graduate of Navajo High School, but her connection to the Navajo community is even stronger. Her mother, sister, niece, nephew, grandpa and countless other family members have been part of this community for her entire life. After over 12 years working as a graphic designer—earning ADDY Awards and designing a book cover that made it onto the New York Times Best Sellers list—Kenna returned to her roots and to the Altus area. She has spent the last six years teaching art and graphic design at Navajo.

The real artists, though, are the incredibly talented students. Navajo’s young artists are constantly pushing creative boundaries. From mastering traditional techniques like painting and drawing to diving into digital design and sculpture, they’ve been showcasing their talents in local and regional competitions. Their hard work pays off with top awards and features in exhibitions, making their mark in the art world early on.

These students are not just creating beautiful work; they’re thinking critically and developing skills that will take them far beyond high school. Many of them are building strong portfolios that have led to opportunities in higher education, continuing to pursue their passion for the arts. Their success is a testament to the vibrant, creative spirit that thrives at Navajo.

For the latest on their incredible achievements, be sure to check this page and Navajo Public Schools social media channels.

ART

Graphic Design

Competitions

Students win state-wide competition - April 2022

Congratulations to Kya Funkhouser and Jayla Smith! Their artwork was selected to win the Oklahoma Alliance for Arts Education annual bookmark competition. These two talented ladies make up TWO of the SIX winning entries from across the state!

The OAAE Bookmark contest looks to inspire the minds of young artists in Oklahoma in creating an artistic bookmark design in response to the theme, 'How have you been inspired by the arts this year?'

"You and the other outstanding students chosen as winners are ideal examples of how impactful the arts can be when expressed through quality execution." Isolete De Almeida, President Oklahoma Alliance for Arts Education.

Two thousand copies of these bookmarks will be printed and distributed to Oklahoma legislators, mayors and libraries throughout the state.