Oklahoma Panhandle State University welcomed high school students from across the region to its campus for Art Jubilee 2026, a day focused on creativity, competition, and community on April 21. The event brought together nearly 200 students who participated in various art competitions and workshops.
The annual Art Jubilee provides an opportunity for young artists to engage with each other and experience life on a university campus. Organizers say the event is designed to foster creativity while connecting participants with OPSU faculty, current students, and professional artists.
Art Professor Rachel Miller said, “There were so many standout moments. Watching students buzz around campus, engaging with creative work throughout the day, was exactly what Art Jubilee is meant to be.” Two featured artists contributed to this year’s event: Yvonne Sangster demonstrated her pastel techniques live for attendees, while illustrator Jerry Bennet—known for his work with Marvel, DC, and Star Wars—led workshops and spoke about careers in illustration.
Competitions such as sidewalk chalk art, wheel throwing, and Quick Draw culminated in a closing ceremony where student winners were recognized. Miller said of the awards ceremony: “As each school’s winners were announced, the auditorium erupted with cheering and celebration. The energy and support each school brought for their own students was something truly special to witness.”
OPSU President Dr. Julie Dinger highlighted the value of these opportunities: “Art Jubilee provides an opportunity for students from across the region to come together, explore their creativity, and experience life on a university campus. We are proud to welcome these students to OPSU and celebrate the time, effort, and talent they bring with them.”
This year saw expanded participation through new features such as an online juried art show that allowed more schools to submit artwork remotely. OPSU art students led demonstrations in ceramics, metal sculpture, watercolor painting, leather tooling, cyanotype photography—and curated both exhibitions as well as event photography.
Miller concluded by saying: “Art is meant to inspire. It shows individuality represents culture and reflects the communities we come from… For our OPSU students it is an opportunity to step into leadership and service. For the university it keeps us connected to communities throughout this region.”
