Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum Hosts Annual Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

Exciting Initiative at The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art

The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (AGB Museum) at Florida Southern College has announced a partnership with Scholastic to host the annual Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for students in Polk County, Florida. This esteemed program aims to highlight and celebrate the creative talents of public, private, and homeschool students in grades 7-12. With a focus on artistic and literary excellence, the awards foster recognition of exceptional work among young creators, providing opportunities for scholarships, exhibitions, and more.

Celebrating Student Creativity

Dr. Daryl Ward, Executive Director of the AGB Museum, expressed the significance of these awards in the museum's annual programs. He noted, “The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards are a highlight of our student exhibitions each year. This prestigious competition honors the ‘best of the best’ in our area, and The AGB is proud to support this event.” Recognizing student talent is paramount as it not only encourages individual growth but also strengthens community ties through art and expression.

Each submission to the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards will undergo a rigorous adjudication process, with works evaluated for regional accolades including Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mentions. Additionally, worthy pieces will be nominated for prestigious national titles such as American Visions and American Voices.

A special awards ceremony will be hosted at The AGB to honor the recipients of these accolades. Notably, artworks that receive the Gold Key designation will proceed to national judging, where they will be considered for even loftier awards and the opportunity to participate in Scholastic's prestigious Art.Write.Now National Exhibition and National Ceremony, held at Carnegie Hall in New York. This exposure serves as a tremendous boost for young artists aiming to make their mark in the art world.

A Hub for Art and Community Engagement

The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art stands as a vital nonprofit institution dedicated to enriching lives through engaging art experiences. Recognized as the largest and only nationally accredited visual arts organization in Polk County, it holds the distinction of being the only Smithsonian Affiliate art museum in Central Florida. This collaboration with Scholastic further cements its commitment to community enrichment through the arts.

In January 2025, the museum expanded its reach by opening the new Dr. Anne B. Kerr Wing, featuring an additional 14,000 square feet dedicated to exhibitions and education. This expansion includes six new galleries, alongside multi-purpose classroom and event spaces designed to support a variety of artistic endeavors.

The AGB Museum is committed to accessibility and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy and engage with art. It is open to the public Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM, remaining closed on Mondays and major holidays. Moreover, the facility is handicap accessible, with special needs assistance readily available for all visitors. Admission to the museum is free, a generous gesture made possible through strategic partnerships with organizations like the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Foundation and Dr. Alan and Linda Rich.

As the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards approach, anticipation builds within Polk County's vibrant youth art community. This partnership aligns with the AGB Museum's mission to inspire creativity, support budding artists, and foster a love for the arts that resonates well beyond the awards ceremony.