National Christmas Tree display features student artwork

CONCORD, NH — Holiday ornaments designed by 21 New Hampshire students are being showcased at the 2022 National Christmas Tree display in President’s Park.

Upperclassmen from the Arts Academy of New Hampshire in Salem painted, photographed and drew unique pieces of art celebrating the Granite State and its rustic, outdoor charm – converting their talent into festive holiday ornaments. 
The America Celebrates ornament program is an annual collaboration of the National Park Service, the U.S. Department of Education and the National Park Foundation.

“We just started a Chapter of the Visual Arts Honor Society, and this project was a perfect fit for some of our best artists. The students were very excited to have this unique opportunity,” said Frank Sharlow, co-director and art teacher at Arts Academy of New Hampshire. “I told the group to think about what they truly love about New Hampshire and its scenery, and I also told them that this is the time to shine, and to showcase their best work. I am thrilled with the outcome.”

Using different mediums of art, students created unique ornaments highlighting New Hampshire’s beaches, mountains and trails, while also featuring the state flower, purple lilacs, and the state bird, the purple finch. White birch trees, various wildlife and even the famous Funspot arcade at Weirs Beach made an appearance on the holiday ornaments.

The Arts Academy of New Hampshire was one of 58 schools nationwide that designed ornaments for the 2022 National Christmas Tree display in President’s Park. The ornaments will decorate 58 trees around the National Christmas Tree, and include art from more than 2,600 students across the country. 

“These students should be extremely proud of their artistic accomplishments. It is an honor to have New Hampshire’s young talent featured in such a prominent and joyous festivity,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner. All of New Hampshire’s ornaments may be viewed on this website.