Boyd gives back with art

RHS grad Joel Boyd displays some of his artwork completed during his studies at Savannah College of Arts and Design. Boyd is working on a painting which will be auctioned off by the Rector Women's Club.
(Democrat file photo)

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Boyd, a 2006 RHS graduate, is a senior at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Ga. The college is well-respected for its contributions to the arts, and many of its students have gone on to succeed in artistic careers.

Boyd was awarded the Rector Woman's Club Fine Arts Scholarship and recently was asked by the organization to create a painting to be auctioned off to help create educational opportunities for other RHS students. The auction is planned at the Rector Chamber of Commerce community Christmas party Thursday night, Dec. 3, at the Community Center.

"We're very excited about this and think it will be something that will generate a great deal of interest," said RWC member Shirley Simmons. "Joel is a very talented young man who is doing this as a way to give something back to the community. Whoever is the winning bidder will be quite a lucky person."

While at RHS, Boyd was well-known for his artistic ability. He was a star for both his work on canvas and on the stage, winning many contests and awards through his work with the art and drama departments.

"Joel is an exceptionally creative young man," said RHS drama teacher and Woman's Club member Gail Burns. "During his time here, we were able to see his talent in everything he did. Now we'll have the opportunity to see it again through this auction."

Boyd has used his artistic ability to help the community before, donating a painting to the Clay County Arts Council last year for auction. If the past is any indication, interest will be high in his upcoming piece.

"I know it's going to be beautiful," Burns said. "Joel is a very hard worker whose natural ability has only grown while at Savannah."

Boyd also designed the 2009 Labor Day Picnic t-shirts, which quickly sold out.

"We're all very proud of the work he's done and expect many more great things from him in the future," Simmons said. "He's a fine young man who is sharing his talent not only with his home, but the whole world."