San Antonio Honors Young Artist’s Inspiring Message of Unity at Annual Art Contest

San Antonio Celebrates Young Artist’s Message of Unity

San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as a local 12-year-old student, Ashlynn Sokolowski, has recently been crowned the winner of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission’s 10th Annual Student Art Contest. Ashlynn, who attends Robert G. Cole Middle School in the Fort Sam Houston Independent School District, showcased her incredible talent and creativity through her diversity-inspired poster that resonates deeply with the theme of unity.

The competition, which drew over 40 submissions from students across the city, had panels of judges who carefully reviewed each artwork. Ashlynn’s masterpiece features fists of all races encircling the iconic skyline of San Antonio, a powerful image reflecting her belief in the strength that comes from diversity. It has been selected as the visual representation for the 38th Martin Luther King Jr. March and Commemoration scheduled for later this month.

A Special Honor

City officials are set to honor Ashlynn at a news conference in January, which will undoubtedly be a proud moment for her and her family. The judges selected her artwork based on the 2025 theme: “We are the Dream… It takes All of Us.” The criteria for selection included the concept, artistic imagery, originality, and presentation, all of which Ashlynn excelled in.

What inspired her to create such a notable piece? Ashlynn explained that being part of a military family has given her a unique perspective on how people, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or cultures, can unite for a common cause. “The city of San Antonio truly represents the community Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. hoped we could share one day,” she said, highlighting her passion for equality and togetherness.

Community Response

Diversity is a theme that resonates not just with Ashlynn, but also with city officials. District 2 Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez expressed pride in the talent displayed by students across Bexar County. He emphasized that each year offers a new opportunity to celebrate these young creatives who honor King’s memory through art.

“Art offers each of us the ability to communicate meaningfully in ways words don’t always allow,” McKee-Rodriguez noted. He praised this year’s submissions for radiating feelings of togetherness, community, and love. It’s heartwarming to see how the youth of San Antonio are using art to convey powerful messages that reflect their hopes and aspirations.

Joining Together for the March

The upcoming 2.75-mile-long march is set to take place at 11 a.m. on January 20. Kicking off at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy located at 3501 MLK Dr., the march will conclude at Pittman-Sullivan Park at 1101 Iowa St. Events like this provide an excellent opportunity for community members to come together, celebrate diversity, and honor the legacy of Dr. King.

For those looking to participate and learn more about the related upcoming events and the march, the City of San Antonio’s website will have all the necessary details. It’s a great way for families, friends, and supporters to come out and show their unity in a celebration of human rights and equality.

Ashlynn Sokolowski’s achievement serves as a great reminder of the incredible talent and artistic expression found in young people today. As they pave their paths in the world, their art has the power to influence and inspire us all to dream of a brighter, more unified future.