"I feel very lucky to be part of this event. I live in Albuquerque, New Mexico and currently attend La Cueva High School and am a junior, but when I finished this piece I was a sophomore. I was inspired to create this piece by my boyfriend and the art project I was given in class. I see my art classes as an opening to college and as a way to let out my feelings per say, especially in ceramics. My goal for this year is to get at least one piece of painting/drawing and ceramics in the metro art show during the school year. I am planning on continuing my art in the future, throughout college and even in my wanted career as part of the Department of Game & Fish. I'd like to give a special thanks to my art teacher, Mrs. McCoy, who has tight me new techniques and different art styles I like and don't like."

-- Grace Walker

Approximate measurement of art is 21” x 56 ½" in a  22 ½” x 58” frame.

"I'm Santiago Davila, the colorblind artist who's not afraid to work in color. I express the passions and thoughts of my mind through art. I graduated West Mesa High School and now attend UNM as freshman. I've always pushed myself to see how far I can go with my art, and grow my talents. For me fine arts classes with Mrs. Anne Blankenship have taught me adaptability and how to branch out through new mediums, styles and processes. I plan to keep on creating art, I will always be an artist."

-- Santiago Davila

"My real name is Xena April Anastasia Gabrielle Gaea Diaz - Gurulé but everyone calls me Xena (The Warrior Princess). I am honored to be a featured artist in this year's A is for Art event. I am a senior at Del Norte High School and I live in Albuquerque. I am inspired by everything and everyone around me and by their influences I have managed to become who I am today. What specifically influenced me to create this piece was the culture of New Mexico. The blue door was similar to a talisman, that would protect the household from evil spirits. I always found superstitions fascinating and this was my way of recognizing and visualizing the beauty that came with the superstition.  My art classes are so important to me because I never would have even considered being an artist if I hadn't taken the class. Art has also connected me with other awesome artists and opportunities. I am very fortunate to have Ms. Turman as my teacher and she has taught me so different styles of art  that helped me create my own style.  My future goals are: To graduate, go to college, become geologist and an artist, become famous, and the rest of my life is to be decided when I get there. I will definitely continue art throughout my life and hopefully that my art will transcend generations like many of the well known artist that still inspire people today."

-- Xena Gurule

Approximate measurement of art is 24" x 36"