Not only did the Virgin Valley Artists Association focus on artwork created by students at local schools during its month-long art show in May, the organization also announced the winner of its annual $1,000 art study scholarship.

Valeria Vega, a Senior at the Beaver Dam High School, Beaver Dam, AZ, was awarded the scholarship to pursue a theatre arts course of study in Cedar City, UT.

"Talent and personal drive are attractive to us as an organization when we evaluate the students who applied for the scholarship," Linda Faas, President of the VVAA commented on Vega's selection. "Valeria has a lot of potential and we want to support that."

"I was confused," Vega remarked about winning the scholarship. "There were many other talented artists who applied. I don't have that great of luck with these things. Others are much better than me."

Vega plans to study in the performing arts field. "I can connect directly to the audience. It's more personal to me that way," she said about her choice of study.

Faas explained that each scholarship applicant was required to submit three pieces of art along with an explanation of why they should win the award. The evaluation committee chose the winner based on a combination of artistic ability and

personal determination in the field.

"It wasn't a single piece of her art that won the scholarship for her," Faas said. "It was her overall drive."

"We read what she submitted with her application," Commented Jean Wiensch, Vice-President of the VVAA. "It was so creative."

"I've been working in the arts as far back as I can remember. My mom has helped me since I was in kindergarten. I've never really wavered in my desire," Vega commented about her love of art. "I want to make a career in the Arts if I can."

Along with the Art Scholarship, the VVAA hosted dozens and dozens of kids, parents, grandparents, friends, and teachers at its monthly art reception on Thursday, May 17, when the kids could proudly show off their art projects.

Students from the Virgin Valley Elementary, JL Bowler Elementary, and Beaver Dam Elementary schools, Hughes Middle School, and the Virgin Valley High School participated in the annual art display that features many different art media.

The spectacular display that fills the walls of the entire gallery with fun and imaginative artwork is ongoing through June 2 at the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery

Below is a video of all the artwork included in the show that's available to the public.