County Announces High School Senior Art Competition

Sangamon County officials have announced a new opportunity for local students with the launch of the Sangamon County High School Senior Art Competition: 2026–2027 Senior Showcase, a program designed to highlight student artwork and provide public recognition across the community.

The competition is being organized by the Sangamon County Board in partnership with the Sangamon-Menard Regional Office of Education and the Springfield Art Association. It is open to high school seniors in Sangamon County for the 2026–2027 school year, with each school permitted to submit one two-dimensional piece and one three-dimensional piece.

Submissions will be selected at the school level by art teachers, and all artwork must be

original.

Selected works will be displayed in a public exhibit at the Sangamon County Building from December 2026 through February 2027, placing student artwork in a prominent civic setting. County officials said the exhibit is intended to provide students with an opportunity to share their work with a broader audience while recognizing the role of arts education in local schools.

Artwork drop-off is scheduled for November 16 through November 18, 2026, at the Springfield Art Association, located at 700 North Fourth Street in Springfield.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries, with first place receiving $100, second place $75, and third place $50. Winners will be selected by members of the Sangamon County Board.

Jen Deaner, a Sangamon County Board member representing District 25, said the competition is intended to recognize student talent while bringing the community together.

“Our students are shaping the future of Sangamon County, and this is one way we can recognize their artistic talents. We’re proud to provide an opportunity that highlights both artistic expression and brings our communities together,” Deaner said.

Shannon Fehrholz, superintendent of the Sangamon-Menard Regional Office of Education, said the program reflects the importance of arts education.

“Art education plays a vital role in student development which encourages creativity and confidence. This showcase is a powerful way to celebrate those skills and connect our schools in Sangamon County with the broader community,” Fehrholz said.

Betsy Dollar, director of the Springfield Art Association, said the initiative provides students with a platform to share their work publicly.

“This competition is about more than just art, it’s about giving young people a platform to be seen and celebrated in their community. We are excited to help showcase the incredible talent coming out of our local schools,” Dollar said.

There is no required theme for submissions, allowing students flexibility in their creative approach.

Students interested in participating are encouraged to contact their school’s art teacher for additional information on submission and selection.