As the end of February nears, art students are gearing up for VASE. On Feb. 28, Emerson art students will have the opportunity to compete in the Visual Arts and Scholastic Event (VASE) at Independence High School, where they will learn whether they advance to the state finals.

Many art students at Emerson submit their works to the competition in hopes of receiving a Gold Seal (the highest award). However, VASE offers more than just awards, and Art 2 Advanced student, Hazel Perrin, 11, anticipates the opportunities the competition has beyond the seal.

“If we advance to state, it makes us eligible to receive a lot of scholarships, but it also gives us the chance to be recognized,” Perrin said. “I don’t know about others, but it’s a big achievement to be seen as an artist, and I find it really meaningful. It’s a really good feeling to feel like a winner.”

To build confidence, students spend the weeks leading up to the competition refining their art pieces. For AP Art Drawing Student, Hannah Roberts, 12, preparation started with choosing the right idea.

“I really took my time choosing what artwork I was gonna create,” Roberts said. “I think it’s important to choose an idea that you are in love with, and want to spend your time perfecting.”

Art students spend countless hours working on their art pieces, but what judges find most important is the meaning behind them. At the VASE competition, students will not only present their artwork, but also give a speech explaining how their art and message work in harmony.

“My piece is called ‘See Me.’ It talks about African culture, and especially our hair. It relates to how important our hair is and how it shapes us,” Perrin said.

Whether students take home a Gold Seal or simply gain experience, the VASE Competition offers students a unique opportunity to grow. It challenges them to combine creativity with purpose, and ultimately gives them a story worth sharing. Wish our fellow Mavericks luck as they head to competition Feb. 28 at Independence High School.