KATONAH, N.Y. —The Katonah Museum of Art (KMA) will present "Young Artists 2026," the museum’s long-running exhibition of high school senior artwork, on view from May 3-24.
Now in its 43rd year, the program highlights the creative achievements of students from 40 high schools across New York and Connecticut, featuring over 350 works spanning a wide range of media, scale, concepts, and artistic approaches. "Young Artists 2026" is free and open to the public, but donations are welcome.
More than an exhibition, "Young Artists" is an immersive educational experience. Working alongside museum professionals and art educators, participating students collaborate to plan and produce their own exhibition - taking on roles as artists, curators, graphic designers, exhibition designers, and installers. Through this process, students gain first-hand insight into how a museum exhibition is conceived and realized.
The program includes a graphic design workshop in which students develop the exhibition’s signature marketing image. Museum staff, Trustees, the volunteer team, and participating students vote to select the final design. This year’s winning image was created by Hailey Nazario of Lakeland High School.
“The Young Artists program is always one of the most rewarding moments of our year,” said Margaret Adasko, Curator of Education at the KMA. “It’s inspiring to see the students’ creativity and unique perspectives. We are honored to showcase these young artists and hope this encourages future involvement in the arts.”
"Young Artists" celebrates not only the talent of these emerging artists, but also the dedication of their teachers, the support of their families, and the KMA’s longstanding commitment to arts education. For many students, participation in the exhibition becomes a formative milestone, inspiring continued engagement with the arts.
Artist Statement from Hailey Nazario
“My name is Hailey Nazario, and I am someone who believes that art is a language, and no matter where you come from it is easy to be fluent in love, creativity and compassion. I love to use my artistic skill to speak for voices that may not usually be heard, and to shed light to perspectives that may not have been considered. I love to paint murals, make custom clothes, and make paintings for my friends and family. I find joy in making art of animals, people, and especially art about my Puerto Rican heritage. I am so excited to see what everyone has to offer for the Young Artists 2026 exhibition.”
Article courtesy of Katonah Museum of Art. To learn more about "Young Artists 2026" click HERE.
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