Oswego County Student Art Competition Winners Announced

The 30th annual show features over 500 works from 385 students across 8 school districts

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:38pm

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The Salmon River Fine Arts Center has announced the winners of the 30th annual Oswego County Student Art Show and competition. The exhibit features 546 pieces of art from 385 students in grades 7-12 across eight school districts in the county. Artwork was judged in six categories, with cash prizes awarded for first, second and third place in each category for two age groups: grades 7-9 and grades 10-12. In addition, a Best of Show award and several sponsor awards were given.

Why it matters

The student art competition is an important annual event that showcases the exceptional artistic talent of young people in Oswego County. It provides recognition and encouragement for student artists, while also promoting art education and engagement with the local community.

The details

The competition was open to public, private and homeschool students in Oswego County. Artwork was divided into six categories for judging: Painting, Drawing, Mixed Media & Printmaking, Photography, Digital Art, and Sculpture & Fine Craft. Approximately $2,000 in cash prizes were awarded, with first, second and third place winners in each category and age group. The difficult task of judging was done by Liz Hunt and Renqian Yang, professors of art from SUNY Oswego.

  • The exhibit is on display and open to the public through April 4, 2026.

The players

Salmon River Fine Arts Center

A 501(c)3 non-profit organization located in Pulaski, NY that offers fine art exhibits, workshops, and classes to enrich and educate the local community.

Liz Hunt

Professor of art at SUNY Oswego, who served as a judge for the student art competition.

Renqian Yang

Professor of art at SUNY Oswego, who served as a judge for the student art competition.

Ann Buchau

President of the Salmon River Fine Arts Center.

Deaton's ACE Building and Home Center and Agway stores

A major sponsor of the student art competition since its inception 30 years ago.

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What they’re saying

“It is with such pride that we are able to host and help sponsor this important show that features the exceptional talent of students across our county.”

— Ann Buchau, President, Salmon River Fine Arts Center

What’s next

The public is encouraged to visit the Salmon River Fine Arts Center to view the student art exhibit, which will be on display through April 4, 2026.

The takeaway

The Oswego County Student Art Competition is a longstanding tradition that celebrates the artistic talents of local youth, while also highlighting the importance of art education and community engagement in the region.