By Marisa Dawson, Courtesy Photos

Creativity, expression, and hard work were on full display at the Bennington High School Art Show on May 6, where students showcased award-winning pieces recognized in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

Bennington High School students competed against thousands of entries from across Nebraska in one of the state’s most prestigious student art competitions, earning recognition for their talent and originality.

According to art teacher Emily Mohr, students submitted a wide variety of artwork this year, including ceramic sculptures, paintings, and drawings.

“Each student is encouraged to explore personal themes or interests in their art,” Mohr said. “Some of the themes in their work were emotion, identity, and connection. We encourage students to find their voice and use art as a tool for expression and communication.”

The Scholastic Art Competition is highly competitive. Mohr said the regional contest received more than 4,000 entries this year alone.

“For the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, our region had over 4,000 entries,” she said. “Gold Keys represent the top 5-7% of entries, while Silver Keys are the top 7-10% and Honorable Mentions are the top 10-15%.”

Recognition at that level is a significant achievement for students and reflects the continued growth of Bennington’s art program.

“Our students are tremendously talented and highly motivated,” Mohr said. “It is such a special honor to see them recognized for their hard work at this level. They have made our Art program, school, and community proud.”

Mohr said Bennington’s art teachers have intentionally worked over the past five years to expand opportunities for students within the program. One major addition has been the development of a ceramics program, allowing students to explore three-dimensional art alongside traditional media.

“As Art teachers, we have been working hard the last 5 years to strengthen the Art program,” Mohr said. “This includes adding a Ceramic program to give students the opportunity to work 3-dimensionally.”

She explained that the curriculum is designed to build skills and confidence over time while also encouraging students to develop their own artistic style and voice.

“My main goal has been to provide students a safe space to explore their talents, develop a voice, and express concepts based on their personal interests,” Mohr said. “I want students to enjoy their time in class, and to feel supported so they can continue to grow as artists.”

Students are also encouraged to study different artistic styles, brainstorm themes, and create portfolios centered around subjects meaningful to them personally.

“I talk about the importance of art in culture, and how it is a tool to connect people through the human experience,” Mohr said.

Support from the Bennington Public Schools Foundation also helped make participation more accessible for students this year by covering entry fees for the competition.

“The Foundation generously supplied students with the funds to enter the competition, so it was no additional cost to them,” Mohr said. “This allowed for more entries across the board.”

In addition to recognition, students gained valuable experience through the judging process itself.

“Students gain art competition experience, where the work is judged and critiqued by an experienced panel,” Mohr said. “This provides them feedback on their work, as well as notoriety. The competition highlights all of the talent we have in our Art program.”

The May 6 art show served as the final public display for many of the award-winning pieces, giving classmates, families, and community members an opportunity to celebrate the students’ accomplishments and artistic growth.