Becton’s June Artist of the Month is sophomore Ferdinando Morrone, a passionate and self-driven student known for his impressive portrait work, bold creativity, and dedication to art.
The monthly honor recognizes students who demonstrate artistic skill and commitment—qualities Morrone values deeply. He describes Artist of the Month as “putting a spotlight on the talented artists in Becton, which there are many of,” and appreciates how it highlights both the dedication students bring to their work and the growth they achieve.
When the announcement came, Morrone didn’t expect it. He thought students needed to apply, so hearing his name caught him off guard, but in the best way. The recognition felt especially meaningful with his friends congratulating him and sharing in the moment.
Morrone’s favorite piece is a tribute to his favorite band, Van Halen, titled after one of their songs, “I Can’t Stop Lovin’ You!”. The painting took him days of focused work and holds personal meaning. While he’s proud of all his projects, this one stands out not just for its detail but for what it represents, a deep connection to music and emotion.
Art, for Morrone, is much more than just something he does in class. He sees it as “an expression of the soul,” a way to channel passions, emotions, and admiration. Whether he’s sketching portraits of people he admires or capturing the stars through his telescope, he uses art to communicate his inner world and interests.
Mrs. Savincki, his Art 2 teacher, has seen his talent and dedication firsthand. She describes Morrone as an exceptional portrait artist with a strong command of proportion, shading, and color. “He’s always sketching, even outside of class,” she attests. “He creates based on what he’s passionate about, whether it’s space, music, or people.”
Although he enjoys both painting and sketching, Morrone is especially drawn to portraits and faces, which he finds endlessly interesting. “It’s also a way to show appreciation for others,” he explains, naming musicians, athletes, and friends as frequent subjects. He also has a deep interest in astrophotography, which blends his love for art with his fascination with space exploration and dreams of becoming an astronaut.
One of the qualities that stood out to Mrs. Savincki was Morrone’s curiosity and constant effort to grow. “When he sets his mind on an idea, he creates wonderful things,” she praises. His commitment to practicing outside of school will only help him further develop his talent.
Morrone’s story reminds us that great art is not just about technical skill; it is about using creativity to connect with others, express ideas, and celebrate the things we love!
