Can humility go too far?

One South Point High School student recently honored at the Huntington Museum of Art's Portfolio 2005 said that not only was he caught off-guard by the praise, but wasn't all that sure he deserved it.

"I was surprised, because I didn't really feel Š I wasn't proud of that picture," senior Josh Day said. "And it ended up doing really well for me. I guess everybody has a different opinion, a different style. But I'm not really sure why everybody likes it."

The photo came to life when Day and friend Daniel Bailey were jamming together, and the budding artist realized that the two were wearing the same shoes.

"Converse Strings" was born of that moment, and the photo, which Day imagined as sort of a mock album cover, has been netting a lot of attention.

Huntington Museum of Art presents Portfolio in conjunction with the Marshall University College of Fine Arts, with the intent of showcasing the artwork of area high school and middle school students.

It provides a venue for the students to build a portfolio to use in later life, while giving them an opportunity to participate in a real exhibition.

Day's piece was one of five to receive the high school recognition award in the show, which featured work from nearly 20 high schools throughout the Tri-State. The show also honored some work done by middle school students.

Though the piece's warm reception may be a mystery to Day, South Point High School art instructor Rebecca Cordle believes that it is Day's keen artistic instinct for finding a new angle that makes him successful.

"I think it's just a different way to look at a common subject," Cordle said. "He just has a good eye for composition, and just a different way to look at it."

The museum wasn't the only group to honor Day's work; "Converse Strings" was also selected as a regional winner at the Ohio Governor's Youth Art Exhibition and advanced to the state level.

Some of Day's South Point classmates also have work on display, as do several students from Fairland High School and Symmes Valley High School.

Portfolio 2005 will be on display at the Huntington Museum of Art until May 1.

The Huntington Museum of Art is located at 2033 McCoy Road in Huntington, more information available by calling (304) 529-2701 or online at www.hmoa.org.