Over 2,000 student artworks showcased at annual Okaloosa County district art celebration
Okaloosa County, Florida – The annual celebration of student creativity and creative accomplishment, the 2025 K-12 Student Art Show, was hosted by the Okaloosa County School District and the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation on April 23 and 24. Held at the C.H. “Bull” Rigdon Fairgrounds, this exciting event displayed an amazing range of over 2,000 works created by students from 15 elementary schools and 15 middle and high schools in the district.
Not only for its exhibition of young creativity but also as a light of educational motivation, this eagerly anticipated art show has become a mainstay in the community. To an audience of families, teachers, and community enthusiasts, it provided a platform for young artists to display their various skills in painting, sculpture, digital media, and more.
On the night of April 24th, the event ended with a unique reception where live music by the Fort Walton Beach High School Jazz Band established the mood to match the visual feast. The atmosphere was one of celebration and communal pride, particularly during the award ceremony, where outstanding student artists received recognition for their exceptional work.
Speaking at the ceremony, Superintendent Marcus Chambers underlined the need of arts education in the district.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and their creativity. Events like the K-12 Art Show remind us how essential the arts are in helping students express themselves, develop confidence, and connect with their communities. The talent on display this week is a testament to the dedication of our students, teachers, and families,” Chambers said.
This year’s top honors were awarded to several talented students. In the middle school category, Ingrid Caltun from Liza Jackson Preparatory School received the Best of Show for 2D art, while her schoolmate Chandler Buckthal took the Best of Show for 3D art. In the high school bracket, Carly King from Fort Walton Beach High School and Samantha Rummelt from Crestview High School were awarded Best of Show for 2D and 3D categories, respectively. Additionally, Huong (Bee) Kieu from Fort Walton Beach High School and Bria Edwards from Crestview High School were recognized with Superlative Awards in 2D and 3D categories.
The artworks can be seen here.
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Celebrating the important position arts play in creating a vibrant, involved, and creative community, the relationship between the Okaloosa County School District and the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation now in its 25th year keeps raising student voices. Every year, this event emphasizes the district’s dedication to developing young people’s artistic abilities through strong arts education as well as their actual artistic ability.
