The NAHS Brings Light to the Halls

Walking up the stairwell in the main lobby, you may have noticed a new, colorful addition. Hanging from the ceiling is a vibrant chandelier created recently by Hills West’s very own National Art Honor Society.

The National Art Honor Society (NAHS), originally established in 1978 by the National Art Education Association, was created for “the purpose of inspiring and recognizing those students who have shown an outstanding ability in art.” At Hills West, advisors Ms. Montiglio and Mrs. Nourry guide student members in obtaining their highest potential in all art forms. However, one of their most important goals is to bring attention to the arts within the Half Hollow Hills community.

“In the past, the NAHS has focused on service projects that helped others in the community,” said NAHS Co-President Hannah Patel, “However, our initiative for this year was to do more for our own school.” The society started this initiative in October when they began working on their Dale Chihuly-inspired artwork.

“We wanted to do a project that was representative of our goals as an organization,” said Patel, “It’s a combination of ingenuity, creativity, and teamwork.” The chandelier was made using recycled water bottles. The members used Sharpie markers to add color and then cut the bottles into the swirl pattern. A small light hangs in the center of the chandelier to illuminate the piece.

Dale Chihuly, a prolific glass artist, is best known for his “Fiori di Como,” which can be found in the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The glass sculpture is the largest sculpture ever made, containing 2,000 hand-blown glass blossoms that weigh approximately 40,000 pounds. The larger-than-life piece, which is known as “one of the most grand public art statements that has ever happen in Las Vegas,” was the NAHS’ inspiration.

Although the NAHS’ chandelier may not be of the same monumental size,  it is sure to have a monumental impact within the halls of Hills West.