Gloria Manzano: art for everyone

To learn English Gloria Manzano would paint the words in an array of colors on flashcards, as it made more sense to her. Manzano’s interest in art only grew from there, used as a way to express her thoughts and emotions she would illustrate pictures for people and reflect on her life through them.  

“I was learning how to speak English in the best way, even if I wasn’t good at English when I was a kid I could draw instead. Now it’s grown to be more of an expression of myself, especially with my AP art portfolio, in which I’m going into the feeling of nostalgia and how those feelings have developed,” Manzano said.

By beginning the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) at CVHS Manzano hoped to allow CVHS students a creative outlet at a school full out academics. Allowing people to express their creative freedoms was a key goal of hers. Whether it be dance, theater or painting she wanted everyone to have a creative outlet. 

“I know some people are very introverted here, I wanted everybody to enjoy art and not have to worry or feel pressured to do anything that they don’t want to. Through NAHS people will be able to express their artistic abilities while also being recognized for their academics.” Manzano said.

When proposing the idea for a NAHS chapter at CVHS Manzano was nervous as rising seniors are not typically allowed to start new clubs. However, when Manzano proposed the idea to Ms. Williams, she approved the idea allowing Manzano to send out interest forms and begin the club. Although Manzano worried about the club’s success the interest form was a hit, with lots of juniors and underclassmen joining NAHS.

“I was worried because with upperclassmen I feel like a lot of them focus more on STEM related activities because that’s what gets the most recognition on college applications. I felt like not a lot of people would care [about the club] but a lot of sophomores and freshman joined,” Manazo said.  

With so many member Manzano wanted them to be able to express their artistic sides at events as well. At Ifest NAHS offered face painting allowing both club members and Ifest participants to have fun. Manzano enjoyed that face painting was something typically geared towards children, yet many teenagers also enjoy granting that nostalgic feeling. Furthermore, Manzano hopes to continue producing art for the CVHS building and students.

“We’re planning on offering custom graduations lays for the class of 2026, with whatever colors or items you like. We also are working on getting a car to hopefully make an art car for CVHS next year, and painting a new mural on the theater building or courtyard,” Manzano said. 

Planning to keep art in her life Manzano admits that she’s learned a lot from it, whether it be English or leadership.

“I didn’t want people to feel like they had to earn the right to create art, art is something that is for everyone and a way to communicate your emotions,” Manzano said.