MONROE — A dozen local youth artists competing in three different categories were awarded honors in the 2026 Monsignor Thomas F. Campion Youth Art Contest held annually at Monroe Arts Center.

This year, MAC received a record number of entries, with almost 40 pieces in 2-D and 3-D categories.

“We were thrilled with the turnout and talent represented across a wide range of ages,” MAC Gallery Manager Kareesa Wilson said. “We hope to continue to build this program and contest, to give all area kids a chance to show off their work.”

The contest is underwritten and sponsored by the Monsignor Thomas F. Campion Charitable Fund. The fund provides money for MAC to assemble and distribute free art kits to children who want to participate. In addition, cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third places in each category. The contest is open to elementary and middle school students.

“This contest is unique in that we make sure that any child who wants to participate can access free art materials,” Wilson said. “We are so grateful for this partnership with the Campion Charitable Fund, creating art opportunities for children.”

This year’s winners are:

● 2-D Elementary — First: “Untitled” by Sophie Stephens, Second: “The Power Owl” by Keziah Reed, Third: “Parrot” by Alfred Sommers, Honorable Mention: “My Little Cow” by Amaory Ortiz.

● 2-D Middle School — First: “A Different World” by Samuel Grossman, Second: “Hyunjin Dream” by Yadira Phillips, Third: “Surprises Beneath” by Adelynn Kuebli, Honorable Mention: “Cherry Sunset” by Itzela Phillips

● 3-D Elementary — First: “My Cat Milo” by Isla Faessler, Second: “Charizard the Great” by Ross Trimble, Third: “The Beautiful Axolotl” by Alice Knox, Honorable Mention: “Sleeping Melanistic Fox in Meadow” by Ronan Matson

More information about this contest and other children’s programming is available online at www.monroeartscenter.com, or call (608) 325-5700.