Becton’s January Artist of the Month is Justin Cruz!
Upon receiving recognition, Cruz shared, “I felt exceptional! I wanted to create better art than I did last year, and being named Artist of the Month—without planning or expecting it—helped me realize how much I have improved.”
When selecting an Artist of the Month, Becton art teacher Mrs. Lennon explains, “I look for a student who demonstrates a combination of technical skill, creative vision, and a dedicated work ethic. It’s not just about being naturally talented; it’s about how the student applies their talent, explores new ideas, and pushes themselves to grow as an artist.” Cruz’s work embodies these qualities, making him a standout in the class.
According to Cruz’s Graphic Design teacher, Mrs. Lennon, “Justin is an exceptional artist with a unique perspective,” which is reflected in his work. She continues, “He excels in the use of digital tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator but also demonstrates skill in traditional art. His designs are always interesting and well-executed. Among our many talented art students, Justin’s work consistently shines. His unique perspective and hard work show through his designs.”
Cruz mentions that his favorite personal artworks are either his Polygon Portrait or his Album Cover. He reflects on his artistic process for the Album Cover design, saying, “It took a considerable amount of time to create, but I am more than happy with how it turned out.”
Moving forward, Cruz expresses his desire to learn animation, as it is a career field he is interested in. “It is a skill that I’ve wanted to develop for a long time and now I believe I’m in a position to begin learning it.”
