Art

Two Pine Tree high school art students earned top honors at the 2026 Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) State competition, receiving a Rating 4 and being recognized as State Medal Winners.

Freshmen Ava Velasquez and Saray Hernandez were among an elite group of student artists recognized at the state level for their outstanding artistic achievement. Out of more than 32,000 artworks entered into VASE across the state this year, only 2,154 pieces advanced to the state event.

Students who earn a Rating 4 at State VASE receive a state medallion and are named All-State Artists by the Texas Art Education Association and VASE. Their artwork will also be featured on the official VASE website, highlighting their creativity, technical skill, and artistic vision.