Academics & Competitions
Youth Programs
Best of the Best
Art Show
Showcase Your Artistic Talents
As a regional art show, the Best of the Best Art Show provides high school students the opportunity to display their work in a professional setting, be recognized for their art, and gain practical exposure to visual arts as a potential career and college pathway.
The physical exhibition of student art rotates locations annually, cycling between The Center for Visual Arts galleries at SOU, Rogue Gallery Art Center in Medford, and the Grants Pass Museum of Art.
Exhibiting students and their art teachers are also invited to attend a day-long seminar on the SOU campus. Guests have an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities:
- Visual arts workshops in the campus art studios
- An emerging guest artist’s talk about their educational experience, career and work
- A catered lunch hosted by the Oregon Center for the Arts
Recognition of Excellence prizes are awarded to the top pieces selected by a panel of judges. All the students receive a participation certificate and the opportunity to list this special recognition on resumes and applications.
2026 Best of the Best
Seminar Day will be held on the Southern Oregon University campus on April 10, 2026.
During the Seminar Day, ten students selected from each participating high school will be on campus for hands-on work in the university’s Visual Art studios.
Each year, the Artist Reception rotates between art galleries in Ashland, Medford, and Grants Pass. The reception is an opportunity for families, instructors, and friends to celebrate their student’s exceptional work and view their displayed art.
Grants Pass Museum of Art will be the host 2026 location, with the opening reception taking place on April 3.
More information regarding the Seminar Day and Artist Reception to follow!
