The Delta Cultural Center is proud to host our annual reception for the 2026 Arkansas Blues Heritage Youth Art Competition on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the DCC Depot Museum. This event will honor those winners and participants of the Arkansas Blues Heritage Youth Art Competition.

Students from around the area are welcome to enter. The theme for this year is VOICES OF THE DELTA: ARTWORK INSPIRED BY THE CULTURE OF THE BLUES IN THE ARKANSAS DELTA. This is open to students in grades K - 12, statewide. For more information, please contact DCC Education Coordinator Candace Dolls at 870-338-4350 or email [email protected].

This event is generously sponsored by the Pillow Clinic of Helena.

Submission Deadline: June 15, 2026.

Art Drop-off and Mail-in Location:
Delta Cultural Center
141 Cherry Street
Helena-West Helena, Arkansas 72342

There are three categories, which include first place and merit winners. In addition to certificates, there will be cash prizes.

Grades K - 5
First Place: Student - $60 Teacher - $50
Merit Award: Student - $20 Teacher - $20
Merit Award: Student - $20 Teacher - $20

Grades 6 - 9
First Place: Student - $100 Teacher - $50
Merit Award: Student - $20 Teacher - $$20
Merit Award: Student - $20 Teacher - $20

Grades 10 - 12
First Place: Student - $250 Teacher - $50
Merit Award: Student - $20 Teacher - $20
Merit Award: Student - $20 Teacher - $20

Selected paintings from these categories will be on display in the lobby of the Delta Cultural Center Depot Museum until completion of our next youth art competition.

This reception is open to everyone. Please check out the work of these wonderful young artists. All teachers and participants are encouraged to attend. The DCC is also planning on coming out to individual schools if possible.