Comal ISD Spring Art Show Showcases Student Talent Across Smithson Valley Feeder Pattern
For families across the Smithson Valley High School feeder pattern, Comal ISD’s Spring Art Show was more than an evening gallery—it was a window into the creativity, confidence, and growth happening daily inside local schools.
Held March 17 at the district’s Support Services building in New Braunfels, the invitation-only event featured more than 100 pieces of student artwork spanning kindergarten through 12th grade. From detailed charcoal portraits to vibrant watercolor designs, the show highlighted how art education continues to shape students across Comal ISD campuses.
For parents, educators, and community members, the impact is clear: these programs are not just about creativity—they’re building skills, confidence, and future opportunities for students across the district.
Eight Campuses, One Shared Stage
The Spring Art Show spotlighted students from eight campuses within the Smithson Valley feeder pattern:
- Arlon Seay Elementary School
- Bill Brown Elementary School
- Johnson Ranch Elementary School
- Rahe Bulverde Elementary School
- Smithson Valley Middle School
- Spring Branch Middle School
- Smithson Valley High School
- Hill Country College Preparatory High School
Each participating campus selected standout student work, transforming the space into a professional, gallery-style experience. Families gathered to celebrate as each student artist received a medal, with teachers sharing the inspiration and techniques behind the pieces.
The exhibit included a wide range of mediums—sketches, watercolor, oil pastels, mixed media, charcoal, and printmaking—demonstrating both technical skill and personal expression across grade levels.
Recognizing Excellence Across All Grade Levels=
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Superintendent’s Excellence Award for Art, selected by Comal ISD Superintendent Dr. John E. Chapman III. The award recognizes exceptional creativity and artistic achievement among students.
This year’s honorees included:
- Francesca Imes, 5th grade, Bill Brown Elementary, for “Dream of Day and Night”
- Ashlynn Romero, 7th grade, Smithson Valley Middle School, for “Botanical Beating Heart”
- Emery Bayless, 10th grade, Smithson Valley High School, for “San Francisco”
For Imes, the recognition came as a surprise. Her piece combined watercolor, pencil, and sharpie to create an optical illusion blending day and night—an idea inspired by both her imagination and a family rooted in art.
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Students Find Their Voice Through Art
Beyond awards, the show revealed something deeper: how art is helping students process emotions, explore identity, and connect with the world around them.
At Smithson Valley High School, sophomore Gianna Sheppard showcased two pieces that reflected both technical skill and personal meaning. One, created with acrylic paint, paid tribute to artist Mary Cassatt. Another—a bear catching a fish—was designed using ballpoint pen, paint, and even coffee grounds, inspired by her grandmother’s love of Alaska.
“I like the freedom of art,” said Sheppard. “Through art, I am able to express my emotions, and it calms me down.”
Her work was part of a color theory assignment that challenged students to create pieces using only four colors—yellow, red, blue, and white—demonstrating how classroom lessons translate into creative problem-solving.
Art With a Global Impact
Senior Broderick Pugh’s work reflected another dimension of the program: connection beyond the classroom.
Through the internationally recognized Memory Project, Pugh created a portrait for a child in Cambodia, incorporating details about the child’s personality and interests. Using a printmaking technique called drypoint, he etched the design into plexiglass—a process that required patience and precision.
His second piece, a charcoal drawing titled “Goat,” paid tribute to NBA legend Michael Jordan and took 25 hours to complete.
“I enjoy creating art, seeing my parents’ reaction and seeing the end result,” Pugh said. “At a young age, my mom always told me I was talented, and that encouraged me. Art also helps calm me down during the day.”
A District Recognized for the Arts
Comal ISD’s commitment to student creativity extends well beyond a single event. The district has been named a District of Distinction by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) for seven consecutive years—a recognition awarded to only a small percentage of districts statewide.
Events like the Spring Art Show reflect that ongoing investment, offering students not only a platform to showcase their work, but also an opportunity to be seen, celebrated, and encouraged by their community.
What Happens Next
The Spring Art Show marked the third of four student showcases for the 2025–2026 school year. One final Comal ISD student art show is scheduled for May 11, continuing the district’s effort to highlight student talent across all feeder patterns.
For families, it’s another opportunity to step into the classrooms—through the eyes of their children—and see firsthand the creativity shaping the future of the community.
As Comal ISD continues to grow, events like these serve as a reminder that academic success is only part of the story. Creativity, expression, and connection remain at the heart of what it means to be part of this district.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more updates on Comal ISD events, student achievements, and community stories shaping New Braunfels and the surrounding areas.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.