This national platform celebrates the finest K-12 ceramic creations across the country, highlighting their remarkable talent. Held alongside the renowned National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference in Richmond, VA, their acceptance marks a significant achievement for both students.

The competition serves as a gateway for young ceramicists to exhibit their talent on a national scale. This annual event, hosted in a different city each year alongside the NCECA conference, attracts participants from various educational backgrounds, spanning kindergarten through grade 12. Only works primarily crafted from clay and glaze, completed within the past two years, are considered for entry. The rigorous selection process involves jurors meticulously assessing each submission, with only a fraction making the cut for display and potential awards.

Out of 1,169 total entries nationwide, Zoey and Isabella's pieces stood out among the 878 submissions from grades 11-12, showcasing their exceptional skill and creativity. This recognition on a national level emphasizes the dedication and talent fostered within Frenship's art community.

Reflecting on their accomplishment, their art teacher, David Echols, expresses immense pride in their achievements. "Zoey and Isabella are two very talented artists, amazing humans with a great work ethic and attitude toward life, and it’s very fitting for them to be accepted into such a prestigious and high-level national show," he said.

Each student's artwork tells a unique story. The inspiration for Isabella’s piece, Lemon Boy, was drawn from a song, translating its essence into a visually captivating piece of art, while Zoey's cups, crafted with precision and passion, bear the marks of her dedication to mastering the craft of pottery. The intricate process behind their creations speaks volumes about their commitment to their artistry.

Looking ahead, Zoey and Isabella eagerly anticipate the upcoming exhibition in Richmond, where their pieces will undergo further evaluation by a panel of experts. Additionally, both students plan to apply for scholarships awarded through the exhibition, paving the way for future artistic endeavors. Their acceptance not only reflects their individual talent but also highlights the dedication and excellence of the art program at Frenship.