Reflecting the need to express themselves, Marshall's talented and artistic elementary students were at the Marshall Visual Art Center Tuesday.

The reason? The Reflections Reception, a showcase of elementary school visual arts.

Courtney Case/News Messenger (ENLARGE)

First place photography winner Devin Kay looks at drawings and paintings during the PTA Reflections Reception at the Marshall Visual Arts Center on Tuesday.

Students from various elementary schools in the Marshall Independent School District competed in a number of categories including, visual arts, photography and dance, according to Debbie Rogers, PTA Reflections officer.

A winner from each school was chosen to represent the school at Tuesday's event, Ms. Rogers said.

From this group present at the center, another group of winners were chosen in each category.

Those selected at the reception will go on to compete with other elementary students in the East Texas region at the Area 13 PTA level competition, Ms. Rogers stated.

Students who finished first received a blue ribbon, second place finishers were presented with a red ribbon, third place finishers earned a white ribbon and all participants who competed were rewarded a green ribbon for their efforts, Ms. Rogers said.

"I'm glad that they came, because I want them to know that if they did not receive a blue ribbon or a white ribbon and only received a green ribbon, they are still winners," said Ms. Rogers.

Although she was disappointed with the turnout, Ms. Rogers said she sympathized with the parents and is working with Nanci Whatley, an art instructor at David Crockett Elementary school, to facilitate the matter "so that every student will have a chance to participate," in upcoming events.

"The need to have children express themselves is art. Whatever form it is, it doesn't matter. Children need to express themselves," Ms. Rogers stated.