The Visual Art Scholastic Event is the most anticipated competition for art students. Every February, students set out for regionals, some preparing all year for their artworks in hopes of making it to state. Wakeland Art has participated in VASE for 19 years, since the school opened. Whether you are into photography, digital art, ceramics, painting, or more, there is an opportunity to showcase your talents.
“Vase not only teaches students how to prepare and create their artwork, but also the interviews with a juror teach them about the elements, principles, techniques, and medium they used,” said Mr. Baker. “They must clearly express their ideas, while also viewing other students’ work and seeing how they compare with their peers.
Wakeland students headed to Independence High School at 9 am on Saturday, ready to show their art to judges. They are judged based on research application, execution and technique, use of elements and principles, aesthetics, critical judgement, and personal expression. Each student has time for their judging and can eat at the food trucks during their downtime. After judging, pieces that received a 4 are sent to the gym for a new set of judges to view. The new judges select 10% of all pieces to advance to the State competition in each division.
“All art students should participate in VASE because it gives good exposure to get feedback outside of teachers,” said Ms. Garza. “And it is inspiring to see artworks from other students.”
Students who participate in VASE find that it allows them to receive feedback and reflect on their artwork. Of the 57 students who submitted 83 pieces, 72 received the highest ranking, and 4 advanced to state.
“It made me more confident in my artwork. Explaining my ideas to a juror and seeing others”, State’s Attorney Chloe Han said. “Students’ work helped me recognize my growth and feel more secure in my abilities as an artist.”
Congratulations to our art students who advanced to state:
Emily Yin
Gavin Rushing
Chloe Han
Samson Crest
We wish them luck in April at State!!
