2025 Emerging Artists Competition & Exhibition

Arts for Rural Texas proudly presents Emerging Artists, an annual youth art competition and exhibition that showcases the creativity and talent of rural Texas students. Held each year at the Ross Gallery, the competition invites students in grades 6–12 to submit one original work of art for a chance to earn ribbons and a share of $5,000 in cash prizes. 

The Emerging Artists Competition is generously underwritten by Mary Le and Arne Johnson.

Important Dates

• Saturday, August 2: The artists’ reception and exhibition opening will be held from 1 – 3 PM in the ARTS Ross Gallery. Winners will be announced during the event and will receive ribbons and cash prizes. Awards for grades 6 - 8 will be presented at 1:30 PM, and grades 9 - 12 at 2:30 PM.

• August 2 – 30: Exhibition dates. The ARTS Ross Gallery will be open to the public Tuesday- Saturday from 10 AM – 4 PM.

• September 2 – 6: Unsold artwork can be picked up from the ARTS Ross Gallery from 10 AM – 4 PM. All work must be picked up by 4 PM on Saturday. Any unclaimed artwork will become the property of Arts for Rural Texas.