Five students submitted art in November that was selected to be published by Go, Si El Paso, a children’s book project that features art from several El Paso districts used to promote literacy.

“It’s cool taking a step ahead with my artwork and I am happy to participate,” senior Alejandra Mendoza said.

The students created unique pieces by picking one of the landmarks assigned to their school.  

“My artwork is about one of the Chico’s Tacos buildings because it is a famous landmark in El Paso,” senior Vivian Cigarroa said.

The art students created their art using various styles and media.

“I cut tiny pieces of different color paper and created animal forms, such as an elephant, lion and giraffe,” Mendoza said.

Out of the ten participating districts, only 26 submissions were chosen by offsite judges to be published in the book.

“I felt ecstatic because it was my first time entering an art contest, so being selected was pretty amazing. I did not think my art piece was going to make it because there are a lot of good artists in El Paso,” Cigarroa said.

Scholarships, with the support of more than 20 organizations and high school art departments, will be awarded to three students who win “Best in Show” and their sponsoring teachers will receive grant money for their classroom as well. 

“The grant money will help out our art program by being able to get new materials for art students,” art teacher Raul Monarrez said. “I am glad these five students took consideration to helping out the art program by participating in the contest.”

Students are anxiously waiting for the book unveiling ceremony April 7, at the El Paso Museum of Art, where judges will announce the three winners.

“At first, I was feeling good about being selected out of the 26 submissions. Now that the day of the book unveiling ceremony is coming closer and closer, it’s nerve-racking,” Mendoza said. “I just can’t wait.”

Monarrez is very proud of his students and what their art will embody.

“With their outstanding efforts, it will represent our community to its citizens and to those far beyond.” Monarrez said.