High school art students across Garland ISD are gearing up for an exciting event that promises to showcase their artistic talents. The regional Texas High School Visual Scholastic Event (VASE) is set to take place on February 17, bringing together some of the most skilled artists in the area. With the competition just days away, students are putting the finishing touches on their entries.

Chad Wilkinson, the Fine Arts Department Chair at Rowlett High School, says VASE provides an opportunity for creative expression and challenges students to push their abilities.

"VASE is the perfect place for students to express themselves through art," said Wilkinson. "They take ownership of their work and spend a lot of time bringing their ideas to life. As an art teacher, it's crucial that I help students identify and develop their artistic skills. Participating in VASE challenges the students to think creatively and explore new ideas. It's a great opportunity for them to gain valuable experience in the visual arts."

Students have been working hard for months, pouring over every detail of their pieces. They have spent countless hours sketching, mapping, painting, and experimenting, working to create something that will stand out in a crowded field of talented artists.

As many as 2,000 students could compete at the regional event in Forney. During the event, judges will spend 10 minutes interviewing each student about their work, including their creative process and materials used. Judges will then give each piece a score, and art that receives a Superior Rating will be displayed on the gym floor for event attendees to view. Wilkinson says if the artwork makes it to the floor exhibit, there is a high possibility that it could be chosen to go to state. Judges will advance roughly 125 entries to the state competition.

"It's truly the best of the best who compete during VASE," said Wilkinson. "I'm hopeful that several of our students will have the opportunity to go to state."

Pieces winning at state are awarded the coveted State Gold Seal Medallion, which Wilkinson compares to an Olympic gold medal in high school art. 

"Rowlett High School has won more than 30 Gold Seals over the multiple years we have competed," he recalled. "It's tough to win a Gold Seal, so earning as many as we have is something we are rightfully proud of. The quality of the students' work is on another level."

Wilkinson noted that Garland ISD high schools have won at least one Gold Sea over the years.

As the day of the competition approaches, excitement is building among the students. They are ready to show off their artwork and witness the creativity and talent of other schools. 

Good luck to all Garland ISD students participating in VASE!