There is something so sacred about art – how we can understand each other without speaking or knowing the same language.

My AP Literature teacher recited the lines, “To succeed, the artist must possess the courageous soul” from The Awakening. At first I didn’t know what that meant. But then I realized as an artist you have to be open to criticism because you are putting yourself out there by being vulnerable. Your work is shown to those that might disagree with you.

Visual Arts Scholastic Events, (VASE), is the largest art competition that takes months of preparation, and tedious deadlines. For the past three years, I’ve competed in VASE. The anticipation of waiting for the interview, and seeing the works of other artists makes it all worth it.

My embroidery artwork, “Interwined,” represents how so many of us have our own struggles where we focus on our own needs that we forget others are struggling too. On Aida cloth, various faces are embroidered closely together. I wanted my piece to reflect the idea that we shouldn’t suffer alone, but rather connecting and understanding each other can help us.

In VASE, one of the most rewarding parts is seeing all the artworks that are medaled in the gym. Walking through rows of pieces, you see different works of arts that inspire you to become better. Viewing the art, curiosity builds, wanting to learn more behind the story. Each piece has different styles, mediums and meanings that all reflect the artist.

We are truly intertwined. My art symbolizes how alike we are in so many ways without realizing. In the hallways, the faces you walk past each day, all have their own stories, but they just aren’t shown.

After the gallery walk and seeing who medaled, the judges announced state qualifiers. Division one through three. Name after name. Then came Division four. With my last name starting with Z, I was one of the last to be announced. Faye Zayed, “Intertwined.” There are no words to describe the gratitude and relief I felt at that exact moment.

While I was driving back home, adrenaline rushed through my head. I was so happy not because I qualified for state, but realizing how much art means to me.

VASE constantly inspires me to keep creating, finding peace throughout the process. Art is what keeps me going. It’s how I express emotions and stories I want to tell. I am beyond grateful for being able to be a state qualifier for the second year in a row.