Top of the Morning, March 9, 2024
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For an up-and-coming artist, Monticello High School senior Kevin Mikulich had a week to remember.
On Wednesday, he was given the red-carpet treatment at The Eric Show's opening night at the Illini Union. His oil painting — "On the Surface, Part 1" — was named best in show, Mikulich receiving a round of applause while surrounded by family and friends.
A day later, the talented 18-year-old joined classmates on a field trip to The Art Institute of Chicago. As if he needed more motivation.
While browsing in Chicago, "I did think about what I can do to make it to that point," he said. "I'm excited about my future."
The Eric Show was introduced in 2010 by Dale and Peg Steffensen as a tribute to their son, Eric, who was killed in an accident with a drunk driver in 1970. Mikulich knows it's a big deal, saying "I'm honored to contribute to and win something so huge."
His artwork — as well as 170 pieces from area high school students — will be on display through April 5. Visit news-gazette.com for this year's winners.
Mikulich, headed to Parkland College in the fall, has been painting since grade school, getting better with each stroke. His success at The Eric Show "was kind of scary a little bit — it's like the spotlight is on you, and I'm not really into that," he said. "But it's cool. It made me feel proud about what I've done."
The Eric Show award winners
Best in Show: Kevin Mikulich, Monticello High School
First place: Alex Olson, Mahomet-Seymour High School
Second place: Sam Downs, St. Joseph-Ogden High School
Third place: Gwen Happ, Heritage High School
Honorable mention:
Evelyn Ficek, Champaign Central High School
Evie Parker, University Laboratory High School
Max Wang, University Laboratory High School
Leena McDonald, Champaign Central High School
Zoey Minick, Paxton Buckley Loda High School
Mason Hagen, Urbana High School
Ioelle Lee, Urbana High School
Kenya Dunn, Urbana High School
Chloe Allen, St. Joseph-Ogden High School
Athelia Brown, Champaign Central High School
Athens Taylor, Tuscola High School
Amelia Isaacs, Urbana High School
