ST. JOSEPH — Ring Lardner Middle School students claimed several awards during an art contest at the Box Factory for the Arts in St. Joseph.

Student Gabby Alfaro was recognized with a first-place award in a photo tech contest for her piece, “Small People.”

Alfaro is a seventh-grader and created her artwork in the Graphic Design Club, taught by Scott Morgan, the middle school’s art teacher.

Alfaro competed against 19 other Berrien County school districts. As a winner, she received $50 and her art was professionally framed.

Students in the art club were also recognized with the Collaboration Award for their creation of a piece of drywall decorated with graffiti-style tags they created. Morgan also advises the art club.

He expressed pride in students’ work.

“I am proud of the other 29 students’ artwork that was selected,” Morgan said. “We have some very talented students. It is a great honor to have their artwork selected and put on display for all the community to see.”

Students in the Art Club include Teegan Gergel, Celeste Basore, Aidin Downer, Peyton Best, Kylie Conn, Aubrey Blackwell, Rhiannon Frye, Mariah Crockett, Sara Pawlak, Donna Shivers, Alandra Gonzales, Destiny Acevedo, Trinity Cady, Elaina Malcom, Simone McKay, Ilyee Wirick, Zoee Candler, Cameron Woodberry, Skyla Moore, Ayrial Vail, Irie Dempsey, Lizzy Coffee, Kami Hardy, Adrianna Trindade, Aubrey Jackson, Aubrey Mcintosh and Abby Nelson.

Morgan encouraged the community to visit the Box Factory, 1101 Broad St., to see students’ work.

The art show will be on display through April 27. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday.