2026 Visionarios Suggested Activities

HOW DO I MAKE ART FOR “UNDER THE LONE STAR SKY”?

This year’s Visionarios theme asks that students respond to the prompt Under the Lone Star Sky. Beneath the Texas sky, countless stories unfold shaped by the land, the people, and the traditions that make this state unique. This theme encourages young artists to explore not only the wide horizons of Texas geography, but also the rich cultures, communities, and heritages that live here. What story shines brightest for you under the Lone Star sky?

The subject matter of the artwork and accompanying essay should reflect or define the student’s vision.

SUGGESTED INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Please see the list of prompts and links below to spark ideas for student work:

Grades 1-5

When you close your eyes and think of Texas, what images or people come to mind?
What is a tradition your family has? Think about holidays, foods and celebrations.
The stars at night are big and bright in Texas. Choose a Texas landscape to draw at sunset or night.
If you could start a new Texas tradition what would it be? Draw how this tradition would happen.
When have you seen Texans helping each other?
What part of Texas feels like home? Is it a person, a place, a food?
Imagine you are making a Texas themed meal. What does it include?

Grades 6-8

Depict how a Texas landscape may look different during day and night, drought and storm, or past and present.
What part of Texas makes it special to you – a person, tradition or place?
Tell a story about the Texas you know. Make something that represents your life, heritage, or community in Texas.
What is a part of Texas gives you hope? It can be a place, an idea, a person or anything that inspires you.
Texas has many different cultures and communities. What is something that connects us all?
Are there folktales or stories that are important to your family or culture? Make a piece of artwork to represent them.

Art I-IV (High School)

Where do you belong under the Texas sky? Show a part of Texas (physical or cultural) that you feel connected to.
Who in your community inspires you? Make a piece of art to represent their impact and tell their story
When have you seen multiple Texas cultures unite and come together? What does that look like in your community?
Think about Texas stereotypes. Pushback on these and draw what the “real” Texas looks like to you.
What Texas story needs to be told that you think is currently overlooked?
Imagine Texas in the future. What changes do you see happening in Texas landscapes and environments in the coming years?

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