In Rischer’s words, he spoke on his connection when faced with challenges: “I love to go against that adversity. I love adversity.” Jones concluded: “For [Rischer], struggle makes the win more meaningful.” Jones’ words on struggle could not have proven more true as Rischer’s artwork, “Systematic Struggle” (our featured photo), won him a shot at a place in Texas History!

“Systematic Struggle” will be on display at the Youth Art Month Exhibit in Austin, in March, at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. It is possible that First Lady Abbott, the Governor’s wife, will pass out their medals.

What is Youth Art Month?

March is National Youth Art Month, and Texas has been a leader in YAM celebrations and events since it began. TAEA sponsors a number of programs celebrating art during March, such as an exhibit of artwork in the Texas Association of School Administrators / Texas Association of School Boards (TASA / TASB) txEDCON Exhibit Hall during the fall along with student artist demos, a Texas YAM Flag Design Contest, an exhibit of over 100 pieces of student artwork at the Bullock Texas State History Museum followed by an Awards Celebration, various Big Art Day celebrations/events, and much more!

Mrs. Schulman, our high school art teacher, is no stranger to students making it to State! Still, she is excited as no student from YMLA has ever been granted this honor! Schulman explained that Rischer’s artwork was chosen as one of eight pieces Fort Worth ISD submitted to the TAEA Texas Art Education Association to be judged. Only two pieces from all of Fort Worth ISD were selected to be in this exhibit; his piece is one of them! If selected, he is officially part of Texas art history that reaches back as far as 2009!

Congratulations, Brayden! We are rooting for you, your family, Mrs. Schulman, and FWISD representatives to be invited to a private celebration at the Governor’s Mansion in June! The PRIDE of Mandela and your YMLA brothers are proud!