While she’s only a freshman, Katie Bentlage is already making a name for herself as an artist at OHS.

On April 12 Bentlage placed first in the color photography category at the annual Olivette Photo Show with her photo of her pet dog, entitled “Max.”

Competing against a number of other students grades 9-12 from around the St. Louis city and county area, Bentlage was shocked, to say the least.

“It was pretty cool, being the only freshmen and the only one from Oakville to win first place. I wasn’t expecting it at the time,” Bentlage said.

Bentlage, who plans to continue into Photography 2 next year, was awarded with a $50 savings bond and a ribbon for her accomplishment.

Also scoring big at the Olivette show were Hope Berntsen (10) and Ciera McNabb (11). Berntsen placed second in the experimental photography category and McNabb was awarded with an honorable mention in the same category.

While the Olivette showcase ended on April 12, students can still go until May 7 and check out the Young Artists Showcase 2011, where a number of OHS art and photography students have also entered their artworks.