Gov. Whitmer Announces Winner of 2022 State of the State Art Contest January 18, 2022

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced the winner of the 2022 State of the State art contest is Grace Murtha of Hemlock Middle School. The governor selected the winner from five student finalists out of nearly 800 students who submitted their artwork from around the state. The winning art piece will be featured on the 2022 State of the State program cover.

“Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, but it’s also home to some incredibly talented students who turned those backdrops into amazing works of art,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “I want to thank every student who took the time to create these masterpieces and submit their interpretation of why they believe in Michigan. It’s inspiring to see the passion and potential in all of the gifted and creative students in this state.”

View the governor’s video selecting the winner here or by clicking the image below:

The art contest challenged K-12 students across Michigan to come up with a creative design for the 2022 State of the State program cover following the theme “Why do you believe in Michigan?” Students were encouraged to be as creative as possible and were welcome to use crayon, marker, paint, or any other material.

WINNER OF THE 2022 STATE OF THE STATE ART CONTEST

Grace Murtha, Hemlock Middle School, 7th Grade

RUNNERS-UP OF THE 2022 STATE OF THE STATE ART CONTEST

Clara Bonnell, Mount Pleasant High School, 10th Grade

Paige Pemble, Charlevoix Middle High School, 12th Grade

Audrey Wieringa, Cross Creek Charter Academy, 8th Grade

Natalie Bolak, L’Anse Creuse Middle School North, 6th Grade

This year’s prize is a Cherry Republic Go Fish Gift Box containing:

During her 2022 State of the State address, Governor Whitmer will share her comprehensive vision for Michigan and a plan to address key issues and put Michigan first, including jobs, education, infrastructure, and Michigan’s strong economic progress.

The 2022 State of the State address will be held in a virtual format and broadcast live throughout the state on the evening of Wednesday, January 26.