The second annual "Artists Rising Through" (ART Tank) competition at Stony Brook University highlighted the creative work of student artists from a range of academic backgrounds. The event, inspired by the format of the television show Shark Tank, took place on October 29 and featured 11 students presenting their art projects to a panel of judges.
Judi Brown Clarke, Stony Brook’s Vice President for Equity & Inclusion, Chief Diversity Officer, and Chief Health Equity Officer, served as a judge for the second year and is also executive sponsor of the Campus Beautification Committee (CBC), which started ART Tank last year. Clarke said, “ART Tank is an inspiring testament to the creativity, intellect and vision of Stony Brook’s student artists — brilliant minds who remind us that art and powerful storytelling are essential to shaping a better world.”
David Ecker, founder of both Wolfie Tank and ART Tank and member of CBC, acted as emcee. Judges included artist and professor Jason Paradis; Eric Murphy from the Charles B. Wang Center; and senior Norah Allam—the first student judge—whose mural decorates SoMAS’ Endeavor Hall.
Entries ranged from painted murals to crochet squares to digital artwork. Many participants were not art majors but shared a common desire to tell stories through their work and leave a lasting mark on campus.
Paradis noted, “It was great to hear a diverse range of pitches from our student body. It was also refreshing to hear concepts from students across all disciplines, not just from the art department. A creative spirit throughout our campus solidifies their interests and enriches the overall educational experience.”
Allam added: “ART Tank was able to showcase the exceptional artistic talents of Stony Brook students across diverse disciplines, continuing efforts to beautify the campus in a meaningful and lasting way!”
Murphy stated: “Even though ART Tank is in its infancy, it’s already helped students realize their aspirations of being able to leave their mark on campus, which beautifies it for the rest of the student body and faculty alike to enjoy. And I cannot wait to see what the future holds!”
Ecker commented: “Each presenter’s projects were so well thought out. They were able to show their emotions through art. And everyone in the audience felt they could connect with each piece. I’m so excited that this initiative has proved it can live on as an annual happening.” He also remarked personally that his motivation comes from wanting "to help students be and do their best," adding that seeing students grow is his primary goal.
This year's winners were Raymond Lizzol ‘26 (Political Science/Business Management Major), Holly Paik ‘26 (Psychology), and Mariam Penalta ‘26 (Political Science). Lizzol won for his mural titled "The Eye of Stony Brook." He expressed gratitude for winning: “You wouldn’t believe how much I’ve prayed to get this opportunity... Winning is one thing, having an eye on excellence is another. Thank you, Stony Brook, for the win!”
Paik received recognition for her crochet squares mural: “It is surreal that my crocheted pieces will be displayed on campus next semester... I am happy that I can leave a piece of me here for many years to come.” She also mentioned overcoming her fear of public speaking during ART Tank.
Penalta was awarded for her painted mural "Dare to Dream." She reflected: “I believe that the answer... lies in two things: legacy and community... Art has the power to inspire, so why not inspire something great?”
Further details about when these works will be installed on campus are expected at a later date.