Features

Humans of Academy: The Success Story of Hadley Chillura’s Artists In Action

Lily Oliva, Editor in Chief|February 18, 2016

The flyer that the Artists In Action team created! The painting featured in the flyer was painted by Hadley herself in honor of the upcoming event.

Artists In Action is Tampa’s first student lead and formed art show, showcasing the incredible talents of local Tampa student artists from around the Bay Area. Schools such as Plant, Academy, Jesuit, Tampa Catholic, Berkeley and Robinson will be included in the representation of the myriad of art pieces being displayed. With inspiration and a fiery passion to execute a plethora of challenging art compositions, senior Hadley Chillura is the preeminent founder in the establishment of this banquet that promotes art itself to enrich the Tampa Bay community.

What sparked Chillura’s motive to develop this art show was due to the art shows she’s seen around the area. Drawing since she was seven, Hadley wants to give other kids the opportunity to find themselves through art and experience the enriching fortuity of making priceless contributions to Tampa’s culture through art and creativity.

One of Hadley Chillura's pieces that will be featured in the auction. Look familiar? This piece was also part of the High school art show in 2015! — Credit: Hadley Chillura (used with permission)
One of Hadley Chillura’s pieces that will be featured in the auction. Look familiar? This piece was also part of the High school art show in 2015!

“My thoughts were if local artists can raise thousands of dollars for charity then why can’t high school artists” comments Chillura.

Not only does Chillura have four art pieces being featured in the show, but she also has been preparing the auction since March 2015. When discussing the journey thus far, Chillura exclaims:

“I’ve always wanted to sell my work but by having this show and giving what I earn to charity, I feel like my paintings will make an even bigger impact. Its been a huge aspect in my life the past few months and I’ve spent countless hours painting, planning and organizing the event.”

Credit: Hadley Chillura (used with permission)
This is another piece of art, exclusively made for the event! Chillura was inspired by her love for the ocean to paint this watercolor.

Something that makes this event just that more spectacular is that Chillura and her team partnered with the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay so that through them, they will be able to give money to art programs in schools that are unable to afford it in the area. Also, in conjunction with Chillura, two other Academy seniors Mollie Johnson and Natalie Cevallos, will also have art featured in the show! In total there will be 19 artists from all over Tampa participating in the event.

With a smile on her face, Chillura enthusiastically adds that so far, Artists In Action has raised $40,000 with a goal of $50,000. Academy could not be more proud to have such an outstanding, impassioned and, devoted student who utilizes her talents for the benefit and prosperity of others.