The Art Institutes and Americans for the Arts National Poster Design Contest

Twenty-five high school students from across the country interested in a graphic design career competed in the 2005 Poster Design Scholarship Competition, sponsored by The Art Institutes and Americans for the Arts.

Students created original poster artwork that expressed the slogan "Art is a Global Language," and wrote designer statements explaining their poster concept and why they want to enter the graphic design field.

This year's national first place winner is Adrian Patino, of Miami, Florida. Patino is a senior at Miami Coral Park Senior High School and plans to attend The Art Institutes' Miami International University of Art & Design to study graphic design.

"I have always wanted to study something that would satisfy me intellectually and economically. The idea of using my creativity, my imagination, and artistic skills to pursue a graphic design career has always fascinated me. I have strong motivation and a lot of determination to become a great designer." says Patino.

"We're pleased to be collaborating with Americans for the Arts because we believe, as educators, this is a critical time to support and strengthen the universal role that the arts play in our lives and in the world," says Dave Pauldine, President of The Art Institutes.

According to Robert L. Lynch, President and CEO of Americans for the Arts