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Visual art creations stem from the imagination of the artist. Now, five McAllen ISD students with rich imaginations and talent are heading to the state competition for visual arts.  

They will compete for the state Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) award April 25-26 in San Marcos.

They include Emma Escobar of James “Nikki” Rowe High, Adrian Villegas of Lamar Academy, Amani Nguma of McAllen Memorial High plus Zena Discipulo and Michelle Hinojosa, both of Achieve Early College High.  

They qualified based on their performance at the Regional VASE competition on February 22.

“These kids have worked hard on their projects and now will be showcasing their pieces on a statewide level in a highly competitive event,” McAllen ISD Fine Arts Coordinator Lisa Saenz said.  “Congratulations to them and their dedicated teachers who have taught them and guided them.”

Escobar’s piece is called An Ocean Daydream. Villegas created Revolving Spectacles (crocheted tapestry). Nguma went with Outskirts. Discipulo created Candy Shop while Hinojosa entered The Person In The Picture.

The Texas Art Education Association hosts the VASE program. Visual arts refers to art forms that express their message, meaning, and emotion through visual means. Visual arts may be categorized as decorative, commercial, or fine art, such as painting, photography, or sculpture.

About McAllen ISD
McAllen ISD is a three-time winner of the state’s highest rating, an “A,” and a four-time winner of the state’s Post-Secondary Readiness Distinction. In 2022, McAllen ISD was named the Best Large District in Texas through the H-E-B Excellence in Education awards. The district is home to 31 campuses and approximately 20,000 students. To learn more about McAllen ISD’s schools and programs, contact Student Outreach at 956-687-MISD (6473).