Fort Payne Student Triumphs in State Painting Competition

An 11-year-old student from Fort Payne, Alabama, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the state championship in the on-site painting competition at the National Beta State Convention. Derek Flora took first place among Alabama students during the event held at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex.

Derek’s journey into painting began at home, where he often creates his art at the kitchen counter. His passion for painting has blossomed since he first started drawing at the age of four and began painting in 2023. “I like to paint because it’s fun,” Derek said, highlighting the joy that comes with his artistic pursuits.

The competition challenged students to complete an original painting within a strict timeframe of just one hour, based on the spontaneous theme of “Wired Up.” Participants received the prompt only at the start of the competition, and Derek decided to create a piece featuring a robot reading books at a library.

To prepare for this competition, Derek practiced extensively, simulating the conditions he would face on the day of the event. His mother would set a timer for one hour, presenting him with surprise prompts ranging from animals to vehicles. This training helped him adapt to thinking creatively under time pressure.

Despite feeling nervous during the competition, Derek maintained his focus. “Yes, I was nervous. I just kept painting,” he recalled. He drew inspiration from the late artist Bob Ross, thinking about how Ross would approach the task. “I’m thinking about trying to make it look good,” he added.

Derek’s artistic journey has not been without challenges. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just two weeks old and liver disease at the age of two, he and his sister, Madelyn, face daily health obstacles. Both siblings are homeschooled to accommodate their treatment schedules, which include therapy sessions, medications, and numerous medical appointments. During winter, they limit their exposure to others to protect their health from potential infections.

Despite these hurdles, Derek finds solace in painting. “I don’t usually paint when I’m feeling down. I paint when I’m feeling happy,” he said. His admiration for Bob Ross has greatly influenced his approach to art, leading him to develop his unique style.

Derek’s mother, Holly Jo Flora, recognized his artistic talent early on. “When he was four or five, he’d copy logos, and they looked really good,” she said. Holly Jo believes that art has provided Derek with a sense of confidence and resilience. “Art has given Derek something that he can work on, improve on, learn about, and feel proud of,” she added.

The moment Derek was announced as the state champion was both exhilarating and overwhelming. “I felt really good,” he said, though he admitted to feeling terrified standing on stage in front of a large audience. Holly Jo described the moment as emotional, noting her son’s shyness. “We were so proud of him – not just for winning but for competing and doing his best,” she said.

Madelyn shared her excitement for her brother’s victory, stating, “I think it’s awesome, and I’m really excited for him! I screamed my guts out when he won first place!” The siblings support each other through their health challenges and celebrate each other’s achievements, creating a strong bond.

Following his state title win, Derek is set to compete at the National Beta Convention in June 2024. “I go to the National Beta Convention to paint again in June,” he said, eager to showcase his skills once more. He hopes his journey serves as inspiration for other children to pursue their passions. “I’d tell them to go for it!” he encouraged.

Back at his kitchen counter in Fort Payne, Derek Flora continues to paint, building on his recent success, one brushstroke at a time.