Itala Flores, an upcoming Central Piedmont graduate, has transformed her passion for art into a powerful journey of creativity, leadership, and perseverance. From her early days working with clay to presenting at national conferences and showcasing designs across the U.S. and Europe, Itala’s story exemplifies how dedication and opportunity can shape a remarkable future.
Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, Itala moved to North Carolina in 2004. After starting a family and enrolling in English classes at Central Piedmont, her husband’s love of oil painting inspired her to explore her own artistic talents. When she returned to Central Piedmont two decades later, she found her home in the art studios.
🎨 Achievements at Central Piedmont:
- Developed her own pottery technique, “drypott”
- Created a dress design displayed at the Central Campus library
- Hosted her first solo exhibition and fashion show
- Showcased work at public events and placed third in the Student Show
- Debut metal sculpture featured in the 2025 Student Juror Show
🌟 Academic and Leadership Involvement:
- Truist Honors Program
- Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
- Student Ambassador
- Central Piedmont Foundation Ambassador
- Recipient of the Levine Scholarship, Kappy McClenaghan Scholarship, and the Board of Trustees Endowed Scholarship
🌍 Artistic Recognition Beyond Campus:
- Participant in Art Pop Street Gallery and Charlotte Fashion Week
- Invitations to Charleston and Paris Fashion Week
- Collaborations with Team Topher and Opera Carolina
- Named Emerging Artist of the Year (2020) by Art Si
- Recipient of the Hispanic Pride Award (2021) from Progreso Hispano
🎓 What’s Next?
Itala will transfer to Winthrop University this fall to complete her bachelor’s degree in fine art, supported by a $16,000 scholarship. Her dreams include focusing on sustainable fashion and opening her own gallery and studio.
Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the community support found at Central Piedmont.