Polk County Through My Eyes

Youth Art Exhibition Call for Artists

Ash Creek Arts Center, in partnership with the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce, invites youth artists from across Polk County to participate in Polk County Through My Eyes, a community exhibition celebrating the unique perspectives, experiences, and creativity of young artists.

Whether inspired by local landscapes, favorite gathering places, community traditions, family life, or everyday moments, artists are encouraged to share what makes Polk County meaningful to them through original artwork.

Eligibility

• Open to youth artists ages 18 and under residing in Polk County

• One artwork submission per artist

• Artwork must be original and created by the submitting artist

• Maximum artwork size: 9" x 12"

• All media are welcome

Entry Information

• Entry is free

• All submissions will be reviewed by the gallery curator

• Artists may offer their work for sale if desired

• Artwork sales will follow a 70/30 commission split (70% artist, 30% Chamber of Commerce)

Awards

• People's Choice Award

• Best in Show: High School Division (Cash Prize)

• Best in Show: Middle School Division (Cash Prize)

• Best in Show: Elementary Division (Gift Certificate)

• Best in Show: Pre-K Division (Gift Certificate)

In addition, winning artworks will be reproduced as postcards for the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce.

Important Dates

Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026

Artwork Drop Off:
July 6–7, 2026
10:00 AM–1:00 PM

Exhibition Location:
Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center Gallery

Opening Reception:
July 10, 2026
6:00 PM–8:00 PM

We look forward to seeing Polk County through the eyes of its young artists and celebrating the creativity that makes our community vibrant.