46th annual Central Texas Art Competition and Exhibit winners

The 46th Annual Central Texas Art Competition & Exhibition brought together an extraordinary gathering of young artists from across the region for a day of creativity, recognition, and community. Sponsored by Altrusa International of Temple and the Temple South Rotary Club, and coordinated by the Temple College Visual Arts Department, the event continues its long-standing mission: to inspire student artists through meaningful challenge and to create opportunities for the public to appreciate their creative achievements.

Open to students from seven Central Texas colleges and universities and 37 area high schools, the competition featured two divisions, high school and college, showcasing a wide range of artistic voices, techniques, and perspectives. Each year, the exhibition serves as both a launching point for emerging talent and a vibrant cultural moment for the local community.

This year’s juror, Andrew McIntyre, brought a wealth of expertise to the selection process. McIntyre began his ceramics journey in Jackson, Mississippi, earning his BFA from the University of Mississippi in 2011 and his MFA from Syracuse University in 2015. Recognized as one of Ceramics Monthly’s Emerging Artists in 2018, he has exhibited nationally, including a feature on the cover of Pottery Making Illustrated. After serving as a Technician and Instructor at the University of Mississippi, he now teaches at Baylor University in Texas. His thoughtful eye and deep understanding of craft played a pivotal role in shaping this year’s exhibition.

The event highlighted the talent and dedication of young artists across Central Texas while strengthening the creative connections between schools, students, and the wider community. As Temple College looks ahead to future exhibitions, the Visual Arts Department remains committed to nurturing the next generation of artists and celebrating the power of the visual arts to enrich our region.

High School Division

Jurors Choice

McGregor HS: Llareli Martinez “Eyes on Eternity” Charcoal

Award of Excellence

Georgetown HS: Harrison Hallock “Florence” Watercolor

Killeen HS : Canon Pusley “Sleepless Dreamer” Charcoal

Georgetown HS: Mason Gegelman “Stolen Look” Photography

Georgetown HS: Amity Wann “Gette of the Week” Photography

Georgetown HS: Audrey Wood “Eternal Bloom” Digital Media

Honorable Mention

Georgetown HS: Gloria Msengi “Stuck in the Cycle” Ink

Killeen HS: Gabriela Diaz-Gonzalez “My Persian Blue Vase” Ceramic

College Division

Jurors Choice

UMHB: Eduardo Perez Pizarro “Smile Now Cry Later” Pen

Awards of Excellence

UMHB: Hannah Moffett “Ode to O’Keefe” Photograph UMHB

Temple College: Alexandria Ford “Daily Life” Acrylic

UMHB: Bailey Churchwell “Napakō (Our Journey)” Ceramic

Central Texas Community College: Sheri Wilson “Face Scapes #2” Mixed Media

Texas A&M University-Central Texas: Veronica NunMarie Hill “Behind the Floodgates, She Sinks” Mixed Media

Honorable Mention

UMHB: Scarlett Jane Higdon “Tender-headed” Watercolor

UMHB: Cameron Garcia “Blue Bowl” Ceramic