Youth Art Exhibit
Youth Art Exhibit
About the Youth Art Exhibition
The Youth Art Exhibition is an annual celebration of creativity, imagination, and artistic achievement for young artists throughout our community. Hosted by Creative York, this exhibition provides children and teens with the opportunity to showcase their artwork in a public gallery setting, gain confidence in sharing their creative voice, and be recognized for their hard work and talent. From first-time artists to experienced young creators, the exhibition highlights a wide variety of artistic styles, mediums, and perspectives while encouraging the next generation of artists to explore, create, and grow.
2026 Youth Art Exhibition
Creative York invites young artists ages 3–17 to participate in the 2026 Youth Art Exhibition on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Appell Center Studio in downtown York. Artwork will be displayed for the public to enjoy, with awards presented in multiple age categories and every participant receiving a certificate of recognition. Families, friends, and community members are encouraged to attend and celebrate the creativity and accomplishments of these talented young artists.
Event Details
Youth Art Exhibition
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Location: Appell Center Studio, 50 N George Street, York, PA 17401
Public Viewing: 10:00am–5:00pm
Awards Ceremony: 3:00pm
Age Categories
The exhibition is open to young artists in the following age groups:
- Ages 3–4
- Ages 5–7
- Ages 8–10
- Ages 11–13
- Ages 14–17
Age is determined as of August 2026.
Entry Deadline
All artwork and entry forms must be delivered to Creative York by:
Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 2:00pm
Drop-Off Location:
Creative York
10 N. Beaver Street
York, PA 17401
Gallery Hours for Drop-Off:
- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
- 10:00am–2:00pm
Youth Art Exhibit Form
FAQ's
The Youth Art Exhibition is open to young artists ages 3–17. Entries are grouped into the following age categories:
- Ages 3–4
- Ages 5–7
- Ages 8–10
- Ages 11–13
- Ages 14–17
We welcome a wide variety of original artwork, including:
- Painting
- Drawing
- Sculpture
- Printmaking
- Photography
- Mixed Media
- Clay
- Fiber Arts
- Wood
- Metal
- Paper Arts
- Jewelry
Artists may submit one entry per media category, with a maximum of three total entries per artist. A separate entry form is required for each artwork submitted.
Yes. Artwork may not exceed 2 feet in any direction.
Artwork must be ready for display when submitted. Two-dimensional pieces should be framed, wired, or otherwise hang-ready. Three-dimensional work should be stable and suitable for display.
Each piece must have the artist’s name, address, phone number, and age (as of August of the exhibition year) attached to the back of the artwork. A completed entry form must accompany each submission.
Submission deadlines vary each year. Please refer to the current exhibition details above for this year’s important dates and deadlines.
Artwork should be delivered to Creative York during designated drop-off dates and gallery hours. Specific deadlines and delivery information will be listed in the current year’s exhibition section.
No. Participation in the Youth Art Exhibition is free.
Artwork that meets the exhibition guidelines and is submitted by the deadline will be displayed as space allows. Creative York reserves the right to determine final exhibition placement and presentation.
Yes. Awards are presented for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place within each age category. In addition, every participant receives a certificate recognizing their achievement.
Artwork may typically be picked up immediately following the awards ceremony. Final pick-up dates and instructions will be listed in the current year’s exhibition details. Any artwork not collected by the published deadline may become the property of Creative York.
Yes. Artwork created at school, at Creative York, or through another art program is welcome, provided the work was created by the child submitting it.
Please contact Creative York at 717-848-3200 or email the staff contact listed in the current exhibition information. We are happy to help with any questions about eligibility, submissions, or exhibition requirements.