Eight students from Rockwall ISD were recently recognized for their exceptional artwork at the 2025 State Visual Arts Scholastic Event – the largest student art competition in the nation.

The event – sponsored by the Texas Art Education Association – celebrates original student artwork and encourages creativity, critical thinking and artistic expression.

This year, approximately 35,000 high school students from across Texas participated in the VASE competition. The event began with regional contests and top-rated artworks from each region advanced to the state level. At the state VASE, 2,362 students were evaluated by a panel of professional artists and educators. Students received a rating on a scale of one to four with a rating of four indicating the highest level of excellence, acknowledging both technical skill and personal expression. Only 1,356 students – or about 4% of all entries – received this prestigious rating.

Rockwall ISD students who earned a rating of four at the state VASE competition included Brynley Hergert (Rock 9), Lauren Duffy (RHS), Zoe Kloiber (RHS), Tomas Lucero (RHS), Emma Perry (RHS), Hanae Long (Rock 9) with two pieces and McKinley Martin (RHS) – marking her third consecutive year of earning a State VASE medal.

From this group, a select few artworks were chosen for the Gold Seal Award – the highest honor in the competition. Gold Seal artworks are recognized as some of the best student pieces in the state and are featured in a traveling exhibition across Texas museums, universities and galleries. Less than 5% of all entries receive the Gold Seal Award.

Nicholas Marcel Jean-Pierre (RHHS) earned a Gold Seal Award for the second time in his career, further highlighting his artistic talent.