At just 9 years old, Adriana Watkins is making her mark across Alabama and beyond, excelling in art, music and dance.

The Daphne East Elementary honor roll student recently earned second place in the elementary division of the Alabama Association of School Boards' (AASB) 75th Anniversary Student Art Contest. Her entry, titled "Headed in the Right Direction," will be celebrated at the organization's annual convention on Dec. 7 in Montgomery, where she will receive a $500 cash prize.

Art competitions have become a familiar stage for Watkins. In October, she competed in the 51st Annual Shrimp Festival Youth for Art competition, painting a shrimp boat that earned her third place in the elementary age group, a ribbon and a cash award from the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber.

Watkins' artistic journey is supported by both her school art teacher, Zoe Miller, and professional artist Eliza Midgett of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. While living in New Smyrna Beach, Watkins participated in the city's sidewalk art competition from 2022 to 2024, consistently placing and winning prizes each year.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Watkins is also flourishing in music and performing arts. In October, she appeared in Mobile Opera's Hansel and Gretel, singing in the children's "gingerbread" chorus alongside professional performers. She sings with Mobile's Singing Children, an elite youth choir, and Ripple Effect, her school choir directed by Jason Jackson. Watkins also studies violin under Jose Sunderland, a musician with the Mobile Symphony Orchestra, through its educational programs.

Her talents extend to dance, where she trains weekly at The Studio in Daphne with instructor Chloe Theriot. A dedicated dancer since the age of 3, Watkins continues to hone her skills while balancing a full schedule of artistic endeavors.

When asked about her future aspirations, Watkins shared, "I think I'd like to be a dancer or maybe an art teacher. I'd really like to teach students about Jackson Pollock, my favorite artist."

For now, Watkins' family home is adorned with her creations, a reflection of her passion for art and creativity. As she prepares for her Montgomery recognition and pursues her many interests, Watkins remains a shining example of young talent in Baldwin County.