The annual juried student art show at Hiram College once again highlighted the creativity, technical skill, and bold artistic voices of its students, with the 2026 exhibition showcasing a wide range of media and perspectives.
Held in the Gelbke Fine Arts Center Gallery, this year’s exhibition featured work selected by juror Mary Ann Scott Sedivy, a Hiram alumna, accomplished painter, and longtime art educator. For Sedivy, returning to campus to evaluate this year’s work was both meaningful and inspiring.
In her juror’s statement, Sedivy described the experience as energizing and praised the exhibit for its broad range of media, subjects, and artistic approaches. She noted that the selected works stood out for their strong composition, thoughtful use of materials, presentation, and distinctive artistic voice. Sedivy also commended students for their willingness to take risks and create work rooted in personal expression, critical thinking, and skill.
This year’s award recipients included:
- Alex and Tamara Brady Pendleton Best in Show Award ($250): Valerie Doumanian, Self Portrait
- Paul A. Rochford Award for Excellence ($150): Vincent Winter, Waves and Planes
- Ellen Jagow Award for Painting ($150): Sebastian Terry, Endangered
- Abigail Flint Award for Photography ($150): Samantha Godfrey, Face of Cards
- Award for Design ($150): Maddie Kennedy, Everyone Watches Women’s Sports
- Award for Outstanding Work by a Freshman or Sophomore ($150): Whitney Bates, Sewing of Life
- Juror’s Mention ($50): Ava Westenfelder, Symmetry
The annual exhibition serves as both a celebration of student achievement and a reflection of the vibrant creative community at Hiram. From photography and drawing to painting and design, this year’s show offered a compelling look at the talent, perspective, and imagination of Hiram’s student artists.
