Art Contest
The TREA Student Art Contest celebrates the imagination, talent, and rural experiences of young artists across our member districts.
View 2026 Winners
Celebrating Young Artists Across Rural Texas
Since 2017, the TREA Annual Student Art Contest has celebrated the creativity of students in member districts across rural Texas. Explore the 2026 winners below or visit the archive of past winners.
Congratulations to Our 2026 Winners
We applaud the creativity and dedication of all 475 students who participated. Each winner receives a cash prize, and the winning artwork was showcased during the TREA Annual Conference at Kalahari Resorts in Round Rock. Special thanks to Blick Art Materials for providing gift certificates to winning students and their teachers.
2026 submissions are closed
The submission deadline has passed. The information below is retained as a reference for participating districts and future contest planning.
Contest Information
Grade Divisions
Grades 3–5
Grades 6–8
Grades 9–12
Cash Prizes
First Place: $500
Second Place: $300
Third Place: $150
2026 Theme
Where I Come From…
Rural Texas
Judging
Neatness, creativity, connection to the theme, and overall impact.
Artwork Requirements
- Create an original design based on “Where I Come From… Rural Texas.”
- Artwork may not be larger than 11 × 17 inches.
- One submission per student.
- Any medium may be used, including original digital artwork.
- AI-generated artwork is not permitted.
- A digital version of the artwork is required.
- Name the file: grade_lastname_isd.
- Do not sign the artwork.
Submission Process
Submit one form per student and upload the artwork where directed. A single login may be used to submit entries for multiple students.
Students may submit their own entries. Teachers directing students to submit individually should provide TREA with a list of expected student names.
Students entering independently must remain responsive to TREA email and may be asked to verify enrollment through their district.
Helpful Notes for Entrants
- Strong, simple, and colorful designs create the greatest visual impact.
- Winning students must provide a photograph with their artwork for conference and online recognition.
- Submission confirms parent or guardian permission for TREA to use the artwork and student photograph.
- Winning artwork becomes the property of TREA and may be used at the Annual Conference, online, and in print.
Special Thanks to Blick Art Materials
Blick generously provided $1,575 in gift cards for student winners and their teachers across all three contest divisions.
Student gift cards
1st: $75 · 2nd: $50 · 3rd: $35
Teacher gift cards
1st: $150 · 2nd: $100 · 3rd: $75
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