Parkland High School

Parkland High School

Show submenu for Our Campus
Show submenu for Students & Families
Show submenu for Community
Show submenu for Military Families
Show submenu for Athletics and Clubs
Show submenu for For Staff
Calendar
Show submenu for Quick Links
Show submenu for
Student, Giovanny Ortiz, stands alongside Congresswoman Veronica Escobar holding a certificate.

Back-to-Back Honors: Parkland High School Artists Selected for El Paso Museum of Art Summer Exhibition

Parkland High School

May 29, 2026

Celebrating Excellence in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition

Parkland High School is incredibly proud to announce that the exceptional artwork of student-artists Giovanny Ortiz and Valerie Vela has been selected for display at the El Paso Museum of Art (EPMA). Their pieces will be featured in the museum galleries throughout the summer.

Remarkably, this achievement marks the second consecutive year that both Giovanny and Valerie have earned this prestigious distinction—a testament to their enduring talent, growth, and dedication to their craft.

Capturing "A Day in the Borderland"

This year’s submissions to the annual Congressional Art Competition challenged students to explore the theme, “A Day in the Borderland.” Both artists rose to the occasion beautifully, translating the complex, vibrant spirit of our community onto the canvas and page:

  • Giovanny Ortiz delivered a striking, colorful painting that beautifully handles light and shadow, capturing the energy, movement, and deep-rooted cultural iconography of life in the region. His exceptional work earned him a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, presented by Congresswoman Veronica Escobar.

  • Valerie Vela showcased her mastery of contrast and detail with a stunning, high-contrast black-and-white print titled "El cruce / The Crossing." Her piece brilliantly captures a poignant, structural, and deeply experiential perspective of daily transit and life along the border.

Through their unique cultural lenses and personal experiences, these two Matadors have given our entire community a beautiful reason to reflect and feel proud.

A Heartfelt Congratulations!

"Please join the faculty, staff, and student body at Parkland High School in sending a massive congratulations to Valerie and Giovanny! Thank you for representing the Matador spirit so beautifully on a regional and national stage."

Plan Your Visit: Don't miss the chance to see these incredible pieces up close! Be sure to visit the El Paso Museum of Art this summer to support our homegrown talent in person.

Art student, Valerie Vela, stands near her displayed artwork high-contrast black-and-white print titled "El cruce / The Crossing."Art student, Giovanny Ortiz, stands beside his displayed artwork while displaying the peace sign with his right hand.