‘Museum at Play’ Wins National Recognition for SCH Student Photographer

With one powerful photograph, Quinn Seawright ’25 has made history: She is the first-ever SCH photography student to win a National Scholastic Art Award. Seawright received three Scholastic Gold Keys at the regional level, and each was considered for an award or scholarship at the national level. She won a National Silver Award for her photograph, “Museum at Play,” taken at the Panthéon in Paris last year.

“I was struck by the contrast between the grandeur of the hall and the casual tourists,” she said. “The two children playing with their reflections amused me—they were so focused on their own images, completely unaware of the historic art surrounding them.”

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, for teens in grades 7-12, are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers and judged by a panel of esteemed artists and writers. Selections created by national medalists may be featured in exhibitions in New York, D.C., and around the country. 

SCH photography teacher Pete Capano was thrilled to hear the news that Seawright was recognized at the national level. “It is a real testament to Quinn's hard work and perseverance that she has achieved this honor!” he said. 

According to Scholastic, each year jurors look for works that exemplify the Awards’ core values: originality, skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision. All entries are first considered regionally for Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mention awards. Entries that win a Gold Key are automatically considered for National Awards, including Gold Medal, Silver Medal, and scholarship awards. Seawright was one of five SCH students considered at the national level for art or writing. 

“We are incredibly proud of Quinn,” said Megan Monaghan, director of the Arts. “Her ability to capture perspective and beauty through the lens is truly remarkable.”

Learn more about the Arts at SCH.