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News | Aug. 3, 2018

Aspiring artist on the rise

By SSgt Vivian C. McGhee DLA Distribution Red River, Texas

The artistic works of Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni are known throughout the world. However, on the horizon a bright young artist by the name of Lillian E. Allen arises. 

Allen is the daughter of DLA Distribution Red River, Texas distribution process worker, Timothy Allen.

Affectionately known as “Lilly” by her family and friends, she emerges on the scene as a bashful twelve year old.  However, her artistry on the contraire portrays a different story. 

Her rise to stardom came when she was approached by George Smith, executive director of the Southwest Arkansas Arts Council.  Impressed with photos he had been shown of her drawings, Smith asked Allen to take on a special project. 

Over a three week period working only on the weekends, Allen faced conditions that most young girls her age would not have.  With the support of her parents she completed the task, deemed by some as an artistic challenge.  

Skillfully crafted on a 10 foot by 12 foot concrete sidewalk within Hope’s one-of-a-kind ARTpark, “Gertrude the Owl” came alive.  Allen’s artistic gift is truly an inspiration to both young and old.

Many stand in awe at the works of Michelangelo at the Sistine Chapel in Rome.  However, as the paths of the Hope’s one-of-a-kind ARTpark are walked, there is no doubt that the same will be said of Allen’s works.