For two consecutive nights this week, hundreds of teen artists across greater Houston and their proud parents and teachers packed the University of Houston’s Cullen Performance Hall to be honored during the 2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards regional receptions, sponsored by Harris County Department of Education.

Gold Key winners were invited to celebrate May 7-8 in person, and Silver Key winners were honored during a livestream of the event.

“Scholastic for us is like the Academy Awards for art,” said Elisa Barry, an art teacher at Spring Branch ISD’s Memorial High School, who was honored May 8 as the Blick Art Award recipient. “My kids are so driven to participate and they want to do well and be recognized. They get to see all these different mediums and styles, and it can really inspire them as artists.”

Each night began with artists and their families able to look over the many pieces of artwork on display at UH’s Student Center. Students posed for photos in front of their work, while also meeting other artists.

“I hope my work leaves a lasting impression on viewers and I look forward to an understanding of my inner personality,” said Ferry Fang, a sophomore at Cypress-Fairbanks ISD’s Bridgeland High School who is an American Voices National Medalist. “I believe that showcasing my work stems from a desire to connect my artistic expressions with the audience, justifying my past efforts.”

Guests then made the short walk to Cullen Performance Hall for the ceremonies.

“Scholastics Art and Writing is a very special opportunity for young artists to compete nationally as they present their artwork to a larger audience,” said Brad Conklin, Fang’s art teacher at Bridgeland High School. “I still remember entering Scholastic Art and Writing as a teenager and how it made me feel excited to be a developing artist with my own voice. Especially as a young artist, it is extremely important for one to see the unique value of his or her experiences, memories, ideas and expression.”

Following a short welcome and opening remarks from UH representatives, the Silver Key and Gold Key winners were announced and celebrated. Featured speakers over the two nights were actress and writer Crystal Rae, poet and writer Camari Carter Hawkins and multimedia artist Douglas James Jr.

Of the nearly 16,000 submissions from our area, HCDE awarded more 3,800 honors, including Gold Key, Silver Key, Honorable Mention, and both American Voices and American Visions nominations. Works that receive Gold Key recognition at the regional level are automatically submitted for national adjudication.

Artwork and written pieces by national and regional Gold and Silver Key winners will remain on display for another week. The High School Art Exhibit runs through May 12 at UH’s Student Center. The Middle School Art Exhibit runs one extra day at Texas Art Supply.

“Through this competition, I realized I needed to expand my horizons and continue to develop as an artist. My current work is limited to what I can see,” Fang said. “I saw in the other award-winning works many different regional cultures and customs, which helped me roughly understand styles I can’t currently reach. Winning this award feels like validation of my pursuit of art. It not only confirms my efforts but also motivates me to continue advancing, seeking greater achievements.”