About this event

Since 1999, Northern Nevada middle and high school students have been invited to submit their artwork to the Scholastic Art Awards competition. Sheppard Contemporary’s annual presentation of the Scholastic Awards is scheduled in conjunction with the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, a national program designed to identify America’s most gifted young artists and writers. This program has honored some of our nation’s most celebrated artists including Truman Capote, Sylvia Plath, Michael Sarich, Cindy Sherman, Robert Redford, and Andy Warhol.

Students in grades 7-12 (age 13 and up) submit their art which is then judged by a panel of local artists and art professionals. Artworks are eligible for the highest award of Gold Key, followed by a Silver Key, or an Honorable Mention based on originality, technical skill, and an emergence of a personal vision. Along with going on to compete in the national competition, select works will be shown in a joint exhibition presented by the Nevada Museum of Art and Sheppard Contemporary at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Awards Ceremony: Nightingale Concert Hall | Church Fine Arts, University of
Nevada, Reno Saturday, February 14, 2026 | 10 – 11am

Additional information

• Attendance type: In person
• Cost: Free
• Event type: Arts & Culture, Social Events