Students in Hagerstown Jr./Sr. High art classes honored their unsung heroes with original artwork in a show the Historic Hagerstown Museum hosted Sunday, May 17.
The show was an extension of a yearlong project that HJSHS art teacher Beth Overfield implemented as an Arteffect Arts Ambassador. Arteffect is a program where students and educators learn about unsung heroes through project-based learning. Earlier in the year, students selected an individual from the Arteffect directory to research and dedicate an original work inspired by that person’s story and accomplishments.
To conclude the project, Overfield brought it closer to home.
“Each student identified a member of our local community who they believe exemplifies the qualities of an unsung hero. Their final pieces honored these individuals and highlighted the impact of everyday people who make a difference without recognition,” said Overfield in an email.
Senior Kendall Lovvorn loved this portion of the project because she was able to be abstract. Rather than an exact community member, she honored Greek philosophers Diogenes the Cynic and Hypatia of Alexandra.
“They taught me the values of living unapologetically and sticking to my beliefs,” said Lovvorn. After a “haywire” year, Lovvorn was happy to express her feelings through the art and for those that inspired it.
English teacher Jason Schmittler was honored by student Grant Edwards.
Schmittler always hopes he is making some kind of positive impression on his students. In this case, it warmed his heart to see a student put in an effort to say, “Thank you.”
The two-hour event saw a swell of community support. Attendees voted with money for two winners: one junior high and one high school student. In total, the show raised $651 in donations to the museum.
Overfield wants to make the exhibit an annual event.
“I also hope to continue making it a fundraiser for the museum, giving students an opportunity to give back to a community that supported them throughout the year,” she said.
A version of this article appeared in the June 3 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.