The Vidal M. Treviño (VMT) School of Communications and Fine Arts reached a historic pinnacle in the world of visual arts today as student Madelyn Marchan was awarded the prestigious Gold Seal Medal at the 2026 State Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE).
Marchan’s masterpiece, titled "If One Remembers to Turn on the Light," earned the highest possible recognition awarded by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA), marking a monumental achievement for both the student and the VMT fine arts program.
The Gold Seal is the "state championship" of Texas high school art, representing a standard of excellence that few reach. The scale of Marchan’s accomplishment is underscored by the sheer volume of competition during the 2026 season:
32,456 total artworks were entered and judged at the regional level across Texas.
Only 2,154 pieces showed enough technical mastery and conceptual depth to advance to the State VASE competition in San Marcos.
From that elite pool, a mere 151 artworks, including Marchan’s, were selected to receive the Gold Seal.
This placement puts Madelyn Marchan in the top 0.5% of all high school art students in the state of Texas for 2026.
The success of "If One Remembers to Turn on the Light" is a testament to the rigorous training provided at VMT. Working under the mentorship of instructor Mrs. Clarissa Visarra, Marchan developed a piece that not only showcased technical brilliance but also resonated deeply with the state jurors.
"Today, history was made for Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts," school officials stated, noting that this award continues the school's legacy of "Defining the Standard" through unwavering excellence in the arts.
As the Gold Seal works travel across the state as part of the VASE Gold Seal Exhibition, Marchan’s achievement serves as a beacon of inspiration for her fellow VMT Gladiators. The award solidifies her status as one of the premier young artists in Texas and brings immense pride to the Laredo Independent School District.
Congratulations to Madelyn Marchan and Mrs. Clarissa Visarra on this historic state victory!