Youth Art Show

The Choctaw people have always delighted in beauty and creativity. Our artforms go back thousands of years to the earliest pottery, baskets, and fabrics. The Youth Art Show is an annual event that celebrates our young Choctaw artists. If you’re looking for a way to show the world your artistic skill, apply for this year’s show.

The show will feature art in three categories:

  • Cultural Artwear (beadwork, textiles, metal jewelry, etc.)
  • 2D Art (painting, photography, illustrations, digital art, etc.)
  • Diversified Art (pottery, sculpture, weaving, etc.)

Eligibility

  • Must be a student in high school
  • Must reside within the Choctaw Nation Reservation
  • Must be an enrolled member of the Choctaw Nation

Registration

Applications open April 1, 2026.

FAQs

Applications open April 1, 2026.

Application close date for 2026 will be announced.

Pieces entering the Choctaw Cultural Center must be quarantined to protect the valuable cultural and historical artifacts. For more information on this process, view the quarantine letter.

Yes, if the child is in a high school level.

No, all eligible Choctaw youth are encouraged to participate.

  • Cultural Artwear: Beadwork, Textiles, and Metal Jewelry, etc.
  • 2D Art: Painting, Photography, Illustrations, Digital, etc.
  • Diversified: Pottery, Sculptures, Weaving, etc.

In 2025, this show will not be juried; however, beginning next year (2026) and forward, it will be.

Yes. All 2-dimensional entries must be ready to hang, i.e., glass or Plexiglas covering if needed, and all work must be hung by wire. (Entries with cardboard or sawtooth-type hangers will be disqualified.) Unframed gallery-wrapped canvases are acceptable if the edges are painted or appropriately finished. Install date to be announced for 2026.

Dates will be announced for 2026.

The awards reception will be announced for 2026.

The date you can pick up your item from the Choctaw Cultural Center will be announced for 2026.