The Hardin‑Simmons University Art Department is pleased to invite you to the Opening Reception and Awards Night for the Spring 2026 HSU Student Art Competition, our annual juried exhibition celebrating student creativity and achievement.
Opening Reception & Awards Presentation
Thursday, April 30, 2026
5:00–7:00 PM
Ira M. Taylor Gallery
Frost Center for Visual Arts
2341 Cedar Street
Abilene, TX 79601
This juried exhibition features outstanding student work created in HSU studio art courses and selected through a formal review process. The reception provides an opportunity to view the exhibition, celebrate student achievement, and recognize excellence across a range of media and categories. The exhibition will remain on view in the Ira M. Taylor Gallery through the end of the spring term.
Regular Gallery Hours:
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
During the evening, a range of awards—including Best in Show and category awards—will be presented based on juror review. The reception will also include the presentation of departmental awards and special recognitions honoring outstanding achievement, leadership, and contribution within the Art Department.
People’s Choice Award
In addition to juror‑selected and departmental awards, the Art Department is pleased to again present the People’s Choice Award, recognizing an artwork that most strongly resonates with gallery visitors through public engagement.
Voting is open to all gallery visitors and takes place in person during the exhibition.
How to Vote
Visit the exhibition at the Ira M. Taylor Gallery
Scan the QR code posted at the gallery entrance to access the voting form
View the artworks and consider your selection
Submit one vote for the artwork you believe deserves the People’s Choice Award
🗓 Voting opens during the opening reception and closes Wednesday, May 6th.
🏆 The People’s Choice Award winner will be announced during Finals Week via departmental announcement.
We encourage students, faculty, staff, families, alumni, and community members to participate by visiting the exhibition and casting a vote.
The reception is free and open to the public. We hope you will join us in celebrating another strong year of student creativity, achievement, and artistic accomplishment at Hardin‑Simmons University.
