Scholarship winner Kaya Tolly at work
Art League of Hilton Head is thrilled to announce Kaya Tolly as the recipient of the prestigious Art League of Hilton Head Scholarship valued at $2,000 and the Barbara & Clayton Kittinger Scholarship worth $1,000. The scholarships are awarded annually to a promising student who demonstrates exceptional talent and dedication to the arts.
Kaya’s personal statement highlights her deep-rooted passion for the arts. She was born and raised on Hilton Head and has actively participated in the local arts community. From attending summer art camps at the Arts Center to performing in ballet at the Hilton Head Dance Theatre and productions at Main Street Youth Theatre, Kaya has embraced various forms of artistic expression.
“I have always been passionate about art,” Kaya wrote in her personal statement. “My plan after high school
is to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design to major in Painting and minor in Illustration. I aim to refine my skills and learn more about the freelance art industry.”
Kaya’s artistic accomplishments are impressive, including winning six Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, with notable achievements such as two Gold Keys, a Silver Key, and an Honorable Mention this year alone. She also won the 2024 Best of Show/3-D award at the South Carolina State Fair Art Competition.
One of her most significant projects was creating a 4×12-foot mural for Ace Hardware on Hilton Head Island, which allowed her to collaborate with local business owners and contribute to the community. “The mural serves as a testament to my ability to blend creativity with the world around me,” Kaya shared.
Kaya’s nomination received strong endorsement from her art teacher, Monique Dobbelaere, who highlighted both her artistic talent and character. “Kaya’s artwork embodies both delicate and confident qualities that reflect her personality,” Dobbelaere remarked. “She has the heart and mind of a true artist, and her creativity, driven by goodwill, is truly impactful. These are the qualities that future leaders in our world desperately need.” Her photography instructor, Patricia Schoelkopf-Lewis, who also serves as the Sponsor and Advisor for the National Art Honor Society, where Kaya holds the position of President, reflected these views in her letter of recommendation. She emphasized that whether Kaya is pursuing academic excellence or crafting stunning visual art, her determination to succeed remains steadfast.
Art League of Hilton Head is proud to support Kaya Tolly’s artistic endeavors and looks forward to her future contributions to the arts community and beyond. The scholarship program encourages students to develop their artistic skills and pursue a career in the visual arts, funded through charitable donations. To contribute to the Art League’s scholarship fund, please email director@artleaguehhi.org or call (843)681-5060 for more information.
