On March 15, 2025, Porter High School senior Hana Aoki took home the award for 3D Class Grand Champion at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. This historic victory marks New Caney ISD's first grand champion win at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Hana’s artwork was among 8,000 submissions and was auctioned off for $75,000.
“Winning the 3D Class Grand Champion title for my artwork is an incredible honor,” Hana said. “This award reflects the hard work I put into my art and motivates me to continue to create art.”
Hana Aoki's Winning Sculptor, River Round-Up
Her piece, titled River Round-Up, depicts a cattle drive on water, with a cowboy leading cows along a river. Created using pastelina clay, wires, and other art tools, Hana’s work shows her meticulousness and attention to detail. When asked what inspired the piece, Hana said, “I wanted to capture the movement and action of a herd of cows running down the river during a cattle drive.” To capture the precise movements, Hana spent over two months creating her piece.
Hana’s dedication highlights her passion for art and desire to continue growing as an artist. In the future, Hana hopes to encourage fellow artists by balancing a career as a sculptor while also pursuing her other career aspirations.
“Art has always been a passion of mine since I was little,” Hana said. “I feel that my artwork is the best way to express myself and show who I am. In the future, I hope to someday pursue a career as a sculptor along with my other career choice. I hope to showcase my artwork and inspire other artists.”