Meet The Young Maestros

Young Maestro
Alisha Cheng, 10th Grade, Sugarland
Stampede, Oil, 18x24

This piece was inspired by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a classic annual event that embodies Texan traditions. I wanted to capture the beauty of the longhorns' colors and features, so I used oil paint to make the artwork appear vibrant and lively. Additionally, the background is an open sky to make the painting feel more spacious and depict the feeling of the longhorns running freely. In general, this artwork is meant to appreciate both nature and a connection to Texas through the livelihood of its state animal, the longhorn.

Young Maestro
Naomi Lee, 12th Grade, Clements High School
Pequeno Chico y Gran Sombrero, Colored Pencil, 16x20

People often see pictures and artworks of classic cowboys on their horses, but have they seen a Mexican-Texan cowboy? Two beautiful cultures in one ride!

To create this artwork, I used a picture taken at a San Antonio Rodeo as a reference to most accurately depict all details of the clothing and accessories with color pencils - my first large-scale colored drawing. I was inspired by the large diversity of cultures that exist together in the state of Texas. Specifically, I wanted to represent the Mexican-Texan community by drawing this little vaquero in traditional Mexican garments.  With this piece I hope I am able to show a different perspective of what it is to be Texan. At the end of the day, Texas is a variety cultures but also united to one only - like our exceptional rodeos! It is a different and complex concept that persists in our daily lives but is essential for our community living in our state. Therefore, I hope my artwork can move my audience and make them reflect on the uniqueness and diversity of our delicate Texan culture.