The art department competed in the regional VASE (Visual Arts Scholastic Event) tournament on Feb. 21 with 25 art pieces between 20 students. Out of the artworks, 21 pieces received superior scores and advanced in region and one student, freshman Elisabeth Klien, will advance to the state competition held on April 24-25 in Dallas.

VASE is a competition presented by TAEA (Texas Art Education Association) to recognize student achievement in the Visual Arts by providing art students and programs a standard of excellence in which to achieve through many different projects. The art projects include paintings, sculptures, pictures, and drawings.

“The photo I submitted was over claustrophobia for my fear concentration, which consisted of 12 photos relating to that fear,” senior Allison Baldwin said. “All in all I think it turned out well.”

Throughout the regional competition, judges look for concept and creativity and use a rating standard to score them. Rating one being superior, two being excellent, three being average, and four being below average. At the state competition, rating five is distinguished, four is exemplary, three is superior, two is excellent, and one is accomplished.

“It was fun to wait outside for the judges to finish their process of deciding,” Baldwin said. “My favorite part was meeting some cool people while waiting and showing all of our artworks to each other during that time.

Medals are given to students who receive a superior rating at the regional event, and medallions are given to those receiving an exemplary rating at the state competition. The state judging panel gives a “Gold Seal” medallion to each distinguished work of art that is chosen.

“It was fun to be able to compete in the regional VASE competition against art students from all over,” junior Natalie Krause said. “I loved seeing all of the different artworks presented and I can’t wait to compete next year.”