Fort Wayne Museum of Art Scholastic Art & Writing Awards 2026

 

With over 110,000 students from grades 7–12 submitting their work each year, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is one of the largest and most prestigious programs for young artists.

As my husband and I strolled through the exhibit at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, I found myself completely absorbed in the creativity around us. There was such a mix of styles—from photography and paintings to mixed media and writing—and it was all so inspiring. But what really grabbed me were the layers in each piece, whether it was in the textures, the stories, or the emotions they conveyed.

One piece, in particular, stood out to my husband - a fox, and it made us both reflect on how art has this incredible power to evolve. Every layer—whether it's material or emotional—adds so much depth and meaning.

Many of the poems and stories dealt with dark, introspective themes—loss, fear, and identity. Some poems had a gothic quality that reminded me of Edgar Allan Poe. Much of the writing was rich with emotional depth and imagery, allowing us to see how deeply these students express their inner worlds.

The theme of layers ran throughout the exhibit—not just in technique but in meaning. Each piece invited the viewer to explore beneath the surface.

What struck me most was how personal and vulnerable the work felt.

The artwork showcased their ability to express complex ideas and feelings, regardless of how old they were. Some pieces felt timeless, as though they could have come from creators much older, which was both humbling and inspiring.

These young artists and writers are pushing boundaries and revealing the complexities of the human experience.

The layers they use—whether in materials, words, or emotions—show the power of expression, and I’m excited to see where their creativity will take them.

Witnessing these works firsthand was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting young voices in the arts. It’s an experience that should be shared, as it’s easy to forget just how much young people can create when given the space and opportunity to do so.