Orleans Student's Artwork Selected for 2026 Dogwood Festival Program Cover

Mikenzee Taylor's patriotic design will grace the cover of the annual festival program, marking the nationwide kickoff for the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Mikenzee Taylor, an advanced art student at Orleans High School, has had her original artwork selected for the cover of the 2026 Orleans Dogwood Festival Souvenir Program. The program will celebrate the festival's general theme of 'Celebrating America 250: 1776–2026,' marking the nationwide kickoff for the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Why it matters

Taylor's selection is a culmination of her lifelong commitment to the arts and recognition of her creative talents. The Dogwood Festival is a longstanding community event, and Taylor's artwork will be a central part of the festivities as Orleans celebrates its heritage as the 'Dogwood Capital of Indiana' alongside the nation's 250th anniversary.

The details

Taylor's artwork was chosen from a pool of submissions, and her selection is the latest achievement in her extensive artistic resume. She has won multiple awards at past Dogwood Festivals, including the 'Popular Appeal' award for painting, drawing, and ceramics. Taylor is also recognized for her 'outside the box' thinking, creative problem-solving, and ability to form her own opinions rather than following trends.

  • The 2026 Dogwood Festival is scheduled for April 18–25.
  • The festival will serve as a regional hub for the national 'America 250' celebration.

The players

Mikenzee Taylor

An advanced art student at Orleans High School whose original artwork was selected for the cover of the 2026 Orleans Dogwood Festival Souvenir Program.

The Orleans Progress Examiner

The local newspaper that publishes the Dogwood Festival Souvenir Program in partnership with the Orleans Chamber of Commerce.

Orleans Chamber of Commerce

The organization that partners with The Orleans Progress Examiner to publish the Dogwood Festival Souvenir Program.

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What’s next

The 2026 Dogwood Festival, featuring Taylor's artwork on the program cover, is scheduled for April 18-25.

The takeaway

Mikenzee Taylor's selection as the cover artist for the 2026 Dogwood Festival Souvenir Program highlights the vibrant arts community in Orleans, Indiana, and the town's pride in celebrating its heritage as the 'Dogwood Capital of Indiana' alongside the nation's 250th anniversary.