SISD Art Department Celebrates a Year of Firsts and Fine Art Excellence

The Splendora ISD Art Department recently wrapped up a remarkable year with its annual District Art Show, hosted at the Locke Surls Center for Art and Nature. The two-week exhibit highlighted the extraordinary talents of student artists across all grade levels, showcasing works from Rodeo Art, VASE, Jr. VASE, TEAM, AP Art Portfolios, and various classroom projects. The exhibit was open to the public and drew enthusiastic praise from families, staff, and community members alike.

This year marked a series of historic milestones for the district’s growing art program. For the first time, Splendora High School senior Clarice Shavers had her work featured at the prestigious TASA/TASB Art Showcase in San Antonio. Following that exciting achievement, senior Bryce Scruggs’ captivating sculpture was selected to represent Splendora ISD at the Youth Art Month Spring Exhibition in Austin.

The district also entered multiple statewide art competitions for the first time. High school students participated in the Visual Art Scholastic Event (VASE) hosted by Bryan ISD, while junior high students competed in Jr. VASE in Conroe ISD. Our elementary students joined the Texas Elementary Art Meet (TEAM), marking the program’s inaugural entry across all levels. Despite being first-time participants, Splendora students earned numerous top ratings and awards, affirming their creativity and commitment to artistic excellence.

Another unforgettable highlight was the “Museum on the Move” exhibit, which brought rare and original works by renowned artists—including Monet, Pissarro, and Rembrandt—to the SHS Library. Thanks to the Von Schmidt Family Trust, students, staff, and community members had a unique opportunity to view these masterpieces up close in an intimate setting.

Additionally, Splendora High School proudly launched its first-ever National Art Honor Society (NAHS) chapter. The inaugural induction ceremony celebrated students’ dedication to art, leadership, and community service. NAHS members logged over 350 collective hours of service this year. A standout experience included volunteering at the “Heard of GOATS” exhibit, curated by acclaimed artist and Splendora native James Surls. Students met 20 of Texas’s top artists and received autographed programs as cherished mementos of the event.

We are incredibly proud of the accomplishments of our student artists and grateful to the dedicated art educators who have inspired, challenged, and nurtured their creativity. This year was a true testament to what can happen when talent is supported and celebrated—here’s to continued growth and future success in the arts at Splendora ISD!