BRENHAM HIGH SCHOOL ART STUDENTS MAKE HISTORY AT REGIONAL COMPETITION

  

The Brenham High School art program broke records with its largest-ever participation in the Region 6 Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE), held on Saturday at Bryan High School.

A total of 56 student entries were submitted, setting a new high for representation by Brenham ISD.  Of those entries, 53 earned medals for their artwork.  Additionally, four students – Katherine Inestroza, Jordan Phillips, Julliet Hendrickson and Amber Haley – are advancing to the State VASE Competition, taking place April 25-26 at San Marcos High School.

The VASE is the largest student art competition in Texas, requiring students to create original artwork, provide planning and sketching documentation, complete a written reflection on their artistic process and techniques, and participate in a one-on-one interview with a judge.  Each submission is judged on a scale of I to IV, with a IV rating signifying exemplary work.  Judges then select fewer than 10 percent of all gold medalists in each division to advance to state.

Student entries were submitted under the guidance of Brenham High School art educators Savannah Nichols, Stephen Henry and Austin Youngs.  Nichols said this year’s success at regionals is “a reflection of the incredible creativity and work ethic of our students”, while Henry said this competition allows students to “take ownership of their artistic journey.”

At the State VASE Competition, student artwork will be evaluated by jurors from across the country.  Students who earn an exemplary rating at the state event will receive a medallion and be named an All-State Artist by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA).  Additionally, state medalists will have their artwork featured on the VASE website.

The most prestigious honor at state is the Gold Seal Award, given to a select number of exemplary pieces that demonstrate superior concept, technique, craftsmanship, and creativity.  Gold Seal recipients will have their artwork showcased in exhibitions across Texas, culminating in the Gold Seal Exhibition at the annual TAEA Fall Conference.

Brenham High School Principal Michael Watts said the students and educators are continuing the high school’s “strong tradition of excellence in the arts” and that the art program “continues to flourish.”