Broomfield student and aspiring artist Matt Hernandez, 18, was shell-shocked this week to win the first-ever statewide “I Voted” digital sticker design contest.
The Holy Family High School senior’s design will be sent to Colorado voters who participate in the upcoming General Election via BallotTrax,Secretary of State Jena Griswold announced Friday. Hernandez’s design features “a Colorado-flag inspired sun setting over twin peaks in the western sky,” according to a release from Griswold’s office.
Hernandez’s design will be featured on the Secretary of State’s website, media channels, press releases and as part of an online campaign to encourage voting.
Hernandez, who has been interested in art since he was young, said he decided to enter the statewide contest after winning Broomfield’s local “I Voted” sticker design contest.
He opted to start from scratch with a new logo and started designing on Aug.11. Originality is key for Hernandez, who strives to create distinctive pieces for clients.
“Whenever I do commission work I make sure that person gets an original piece of artwork … that's just my motto,” he said.
During his time at Holy Family High School, Hernandez has embraced his passion for both graphic design and studio art.
“When I got into high school I started taking art more seriously,” he said. “It became something that I wanted to pursue.”
After graduation next spring, Hernandez is planning to attend the University of Salt Lake City and double major in graphic design and studio art.
“They have a good art program and I'm really looking for that, to join an art program that will help nurture my creative skills and teach me some new skills as well as connect me to the industry,” he said. “I enjoy doing art and I want to share my talent for it with the rest of the world.”
Helping challenge Hernandez to aspire for greatness has been Holy Family arts instructor Toni Verdetta, who he credited for his latest accomplishment.
“She has been pushing me to do the best art I can and I don't think I would have been able to create this logo if it wasn't for her,” he said.
