Richardson High School Student Wins 'Best of Show' at Cottonwood Art Festival

Banner Roby's winning entry will be displayed at the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:07am

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A dynamic abstract composition of bold, angular shapes in high-contrast black, white, and red, conveying the creative energy and artistic vision of an emerging young artist.A vibrant celebration of the artistic talent and potential of young creatives like Banner Roby, whose award-winning work will inspire the next generation of local artists.Richardson Today

Lake Highlands High School senior Banner Roby has been named the 'Best of Show' winner in the Cottonwood Art Festival's Emerging Artist exhibit. Her award-winning entry will be displayed at the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts throughout the month, alongside works by other talented Richardson ISD high school students.

Why it matters

The Emerging Artist Program at the Cottonwood Art Festival provides a valuable platform for young local artists to showcase their talents, gain exposure, and interact with established professional artists from across Texas. This recognition can open doors for aspiring creatives like Banner Roby and inspire other students to pursue their artistic passions.

The details

Banner Roby's winning piece was selected from entries by high school students participating in the Cottonwood Art Festival's Emerging Artist program. The program aims to nurture young local talent and offer them opportunities to display and sell their work, attend professional development workshops, and compete for additional awards and scholarships.

  • The Cottonwood Art Festival takes place on the first weekend of May and October each year.
  • Banner Roby's award-winning entry will be on display at the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts throughout the month of April 2026.

The players

Banner Roby

A senior at Lake Highlands High School who earned the 'Best of Show' award in the Cottonwood Art Festival's Emerging Artist exhibit.

Leslie and Daniel Roby

Banner Roby's parents, both of whom are graduates of Lake Highlands High School.

Cottonwood Art Festival

An annual art festival hosted by the City of Richardson, Texas, that has become one of the most respected and enjoyable art events in the country.

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What’s next

The Cottonwood Art Festival will host its next event on the first weekend of May 2026, where Banner Roby's award-winning entry will be on display alongside the works of other talented high school artists.

The takeaway

The recognition and platform provided by the Cottonwood Art Festival's Emerging Artist program can be a transformative experience for aspiring young artists like Banner Roby, helping to nurture their talents and open doors to future opportunities in the creative field.