Former Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School freshman Sandrin Mofo garnered accolades as the winner of the International Art Contest sponsored by the Rotary Club of Otorohanga in New Zealand.

Mofo is described by O-W instructor Alvin Staley as a very hard-working, committed and serious art student who accepts criticism positively and uses it to improve his artwork.

"I am actually not surprised by Sandrin's success as he was truly very determined and has a well-developed focus for a young man. I tell my students if they will stay dedicated and focused, success will follow them," Staley said.

The Rotary Club of Orangeburg-Morning sponsored Mofo's entry into the International Art Contest as a great opportunity to help this young man showcase his talents and compete against other artists worldwide.

"Invitations to submit for the art contest were sent to Rotary clubs all over the world. We knew of our excellent art program here and asked for participants. We are often involved with schools and do anything we can do to support education in the area," said Matt Way, president of the Rotary Club of Orangeburg-Morning.

As a winner, Mofo will embark on a cultural experience including a 21-day trip to New Zealand, where he will learn about its inhabitants and increase his artistic vision by visiting art museums.

"We are very proud to be a part of this experience for him as one of the goals of Rotary is to foster greater awareness of other cultures in an attempt to broaden their world views, which will ultimately lead to tolerance and understanding," said Mike Dennis, club member.

Judges' comments about Mofo's artwork:

* High level of competency evident in the focusing of the central figure using perspective and lighting.

* Excellent representation of fabric; the resting hand is superb. Light, shade and contrast used to advantage.

* Outstanding workmanship, an eye for detail.

* Good observation of light and detail.

* Good treatment of picture in its entirety.

Sandrin Thierry Mofo, born in Cameroon on Oct. 8, 1991, now resides with his parents in Montreal, Canada, where he is a 10th-grade student at the Ecole Secondaire Dorval Jean XXIII. In addition to his passion for the visual arts, he enjoys playing soccer, football and basketball.

"By God's will, I would like to be an architect in the future," Mofo said.

Donna Holman can be reached at dholman@timesanddemocrat.com.

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