An exhilarating wave of creativity and inspiration swept through San Marcos, Texas, during the State Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) at the beginning of the month. Among the participants was YES Prep's very own Maria Gomez, a talented 11th grader from Southeast Secondary, whose artistic journey has reached an impressive new height.

Maria, under the guidance of her dedicated art instructor Mrs. Jennifer Crancer, has been a part of the VASE community since her middle school days. Starting her art career in Mrs. Crancer's 6th-grade class at YES Prep, Maria has grown immensely, now flourishing in the AP Art and Design class and even submitting her portfolio to the college board.

This year, Maria not only attended the event but also participated in various workshops that helped enhance her skills and knowledge for her burgeoning art portfolio. The results were nothing short of spectacular, as Maria became the first student from YES Prep to reach the finals at the State VASE, marking a milestone for both her and YES Prep.

The artwork that earned Maria this prestigious recognition was her painting titled “Farewell, Memento Vivere,” a piece that truly embodies her artistic expression and technical skill. Medaling at VASE signifies that Maria's artwork scored a perfect 4/4, a testament to her top-notch ability and dedication to her craft.

VASE, celebrating over 30 years of fostering artistic talent among high school students, is a University Interscholastic League (UIL) event that not only highlights students’ artwork but also offers scholarships and recognition across various categories. From its humble beginnings in 1994 with just over 400 entries, VASE has grown to accommodate around 35,000 entries, showcasing the expansive and evolving landscape of high school art.

Maria's achievement is particularly significant for YES Prep, a participant in VASE for over a decade. Her recognition as a state finalist not only sets a new standard for her peers but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for future artists at YES Prep and beyond.

The journey to the State VASE was a family affair, with Maria's family accompanying her and sharing in the learning and enjoyment of viewing diverse artworks from schools across Texas. This sense of community and support is crucial in nurturing young artists, helping them to explore and express their visions.

Congratulations to Maria Gomez on this outstanding achievement. Her hard work, combined with the support of Mrs. Crancer and the YES Prep community, has certainly paid off, earning her not just a medal, but a place in YES Prep’s history as a pioneer in the arts.

As we celebrate Maria’s success, we are reminded of the power of art to transcend boundaries and inspire change. Here’s to hoping her story encourages more students to pursue their artistic passions and explore the endless possibilities that the world of art has to offer.