The Drive to Fly

Gary R. Libby Entry Court
Open April 13, 2024 through April 21, 2024
An art competition for high school juniors and seniors at Volusia and Flagler Counties Public Schools.

An art competition for high school juniors and seniors at Volusia and Flagler Counties Public Schools. Art and science share an intricate relationship, nowhere more evident than in the awe-inspiring domain of aerospace. The visual spectacle of a rocket launch, the complex design of aircraft, and the mathematical precision required for successful spaceflight missions, all showcase the union of creativity and scientific rigor.

To highlight this art and science connection, and to encourage future STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) leaders, Vikas Patel, an aerospace engineering student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), started The Drive to Fly. This aerospace-themed art competition for juniors and seniors in #Volusia and Flagler County high schools takes inspiration from astronaut Nicole Stott's creative work, making art and STEM approachable for students. With support from Preston Root, a community pillar and #MOAS contributor, the competition resulted in diverse, student-produced art that highlights the beauty in aerospace. Nicole Stott, an astronaut and ERAU alumni, Dr. Troy Henderson, an established ERAU #aerospace engineering professor, and Bill Chapin, a respected architect from the local area, judged the artwork to agree on the winners that were awarded scholarship funds for their future educational endeavors.

Congratulations to the first, second, and third place winners of The Drive to Fly, who were awarded $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000, respectively. We also congratulate all of the finalists of the competition for submitting their inspiring pieces.

The Drive to Fly exhibit is on display at MOAS from April 13 - April 21, showcasing all of the finalists of the competition and serves as inspiration for future generations to dream big as they weave art and science together. Congratulations to the first, second, and third place winners of The Drive to Fly, who were awarded $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000, respectively. We also congratulate all of the finalists of the competition for submitting their inspiring pieces.

 1st place: Aspen Redden - Flow of the Imagination
 2nd place: Sabrina Dahl - Dreams of Flight Fulfilled
 3rd place: Ava Werner - Snapshot from LC-39