Wendel Smith of Hot Springs is the only Arkansas student to be selected as one of 10 finalists in the 5th annual Bridgestone Americas Safety Scholars Video Contest. The contest challenges students age 16-21 to create a short video about safe driving.
Smith is a 2010 graduate of Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts. More than 1,400 entries were submitted for the contest. Finalists were chosen based on how well the videos encourage viewers to be more safety-conscious drivers and how effectively and creatively the message is communicated.
Using an artful approach through typography, Smith showcases all the distractions drivers face on a daily basis. After a smattering of statistics, Smith’s video concludes with, “be smart. txt l8tr.”
“I recently learned how to use typography through software, and I was interested in how you can create a powerful message through the movement of text and images,” said Smith, a rising sophomore at Vassar College. “I hope by using a more simplistic approach my video conveys the importance of making good decisions while driving.”
The public can view and vote for Smith’s video (titled “txt l8ter”) at www.safetyscholars.com. Voting continues through July 29 and the winners will be announced Aug. 1. The winner will receive a $10,000 scholarship, with the second and third place winners receiving $5,000 scholarships. Finalists’ videos are also available for viewing on Facebook and YouTube.
Smith began studying film while a student in the documentary film class at ASMSA. He plans to major in chemistry and film and pursue a career in film production. He is the son of Wendel Smith and Mary and Henry Sanders.