Elias Sherman, a sophomore from Lynbrook High School, was one of only 193 artists from across the world to have his original flag design selected by the Rockefeller Center Flag Project. More than 1,200 entries were submitted into the contest which asked participants to design a flag based on the theme, “Show Your Love for New York.” Winners had their designs transformed into an actual 8’x5’ flag which was flown from the flagpoles around The Rink at Rockefeller Center during the month of August.

The Rockefeller Center Flag Project was introduced to Elias last spring when he was a freshman in Michael Kunz’s studio art class. During remote instruction, Mr. Kunz asked his students to showcase their creativity and design their own flags to express their love of the city. The studio art students put their designs on a template, submitted their creations to Mr. Kunz through Microsoft OneNote and had the option to enter their design into the Rockefeller Center Flag Project.

Elias' flag design was part of the temporary exhibit at Rockefeller Center and featured the Brooklyn Nets. In his artist statement, he explained the inspiration behind his New York City design. “The flag I designed is special to me because I love basketball and I feel NY has some of the best basketball to watch and play,” said Elias.

In addition to submissions from the general public, several artists and notable New Yorkers had their designs featured as well. Elias' flag was among designs from artists such as Carmen Herrera, Jeff Koons, Christian Siriano and Hank Willis Thomas.

Congratulations, Elias!