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A Decade Of Student Creativity: Clackamas ESD Marks Milestone Art Show (Photo) - 03/06/26
Over the past decade, the Clackamas ESD Regional Art Show has spotlighted more than 1,600 middle and high school artists from across Clackamas County, growing into one of Oregon’s largest student art showcases and giving young creatives the kind of recognition often reserved for athletics and academics.
Now in its 10th year, the 2026 show will feature 250 works of student art from all 10 Clackamas County school districts.
“The Regional Art Show reflects something we believe deeply at Clackamas ESD — that every student deserves the chance to be seen, celebrated, and encouraged in their talents,” said Clackamas ESD Superintendent Larry Didway. “For ten years, this show has lifted up the creativity and perspective of students from across our county. Their artwork reminds us that our schools are places where imagination, identity, and voice can flourish.”
Beginning March 30, the public is invited to view the gallery free of charge and experience student artwork from across Clackamas County in one place. At a time when student artists have fewer visible chances to share their work, the Regional Art Show continues to celebrate student creativity, expand access, and honor achievement across the county.
Founded by former CESD Superintendent Jada Rupley, the Regional Art Show began with a simple idea: student artists deserve to be celebrated like champions. That idea still drives the event today as CESD works to broaden access, lift student voices, and highlight the creative talent growing in classrooms across the county. The show also remained a source of connection during the pandemic, continuing online in 2020 and 2021 so students could still share their work and be recognized.
This year’s exhibit includes painting, ceramics, photography, mixed media, and more. More than 40 teachers helped guide students from early ideas to finished pieces. CESD is also placing greater emphasis on broadening participation, including increased support for students experiencing learning challenges or disabilities in CESD’s Life Enrichment Education Program (LEEP) and Heron Creek Therapeutic Program.
New in 2026, the show will present awards in five media categories: drawing and painting, digital art and photography, ceramics and sculpture, graphic design, and mixed media.
Student winners will be announced at an April 28 awards ceremony and will receive scholarships, tuition waivers, gift cards, art supplies, notecards featuring their artwork, and the opportunity to exhibit at this summer’s youth showcase at the Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts.
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Media Invitation
Media are invited to cover this milestone celebration of student creativity. The Art Gallery will be open March 30 through April 28, with the award ceremony on April 28 at 6 p.m. The event offers strong visuals and compelling student stories, including award announcements, a countywide exhibit, and expanded participation from students in LEEP and Heron Creek. Our team can arrange interview with students, teachers, and community leaders who have participated in the Art Show.
Related Information
Nearly 50 students win thousands in prizes at Clackamas ESD Regional Art Show
Clackamas County student artists shine in annual regional art show
About Clackamas Education Service District
Clackamas Education Service District (CESD) serves the 10 school districts in Clackamas County by providing regional leadership, programs, and services that support students, educators, and communities.
