Nearly 200 middle and high school students representing all 10 school districts in Clackamas County will share their artistic talents publicly when the ninth annual Clackamas Education Service District Regional Art Show opens March 24.
Three dozen teachers in 27 schools submitted student work to this year’s art show, which will be held at Clackamas ESD’s administrative headquarters at 13455 SE 97th Ave. in Clackamas, Ore. A virtual version of the show also will open online March 24.
Returning as sponsors of the 2025 art show are Pacific Northwest College of Art, Clackamas Community College, Venvino Art Studios and Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts. Members of the Clackamas River Basin Council also are stepping in to offer cash prizes at this year’s exhibit.
“The art show is a highly anticipated rite of spring for all of us at Clackamas ESD,” said Larry Didway, Clackamas ESD superintendent. “We are honored to host this annual showcase of truly amazing and inspirational art created by talented students as young as sixth grade. The pieces in our show are a window into nearly 200 young hearts.”
Public middle and high school art teachers in Clackamas County select student work for inclusion in the show. This year’s exhibit includes many types of media, including drawings, paintings, photography, digital art, ceramics and other three-dimensional art. The full gallery will be available online beginning March 24 at clackesd.org/2025artshow. Those who want to visit the exhibit in person can do so during Clackamas ESD’s regular business hours – Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
All entries will be adjudicated by a panel of art professionals. Grade-level honors and other special awards will be presented at an artist reception and awards ceremony Thursday, April 24. Award winners will receive a variety of prizes, including free art classes and scholarships, art supplies and gift cards, and the opportunity to showcase work at another upcoming regional art event – all thanks to generous sponsor support.
“This art show has grown over the years to become a true community partnership,” said Didway. “Our loyal sponsors, our volunteer adjudicators and our participating teachers all make it possible to field this opportunity for our youth to shine.
“Each year, I look forward to walking through art-filled hallways, reminded of the power of artistic expression as both an outlet and an antidote to the pressures of our times. I hope you’ll visit the show and discover the world through the eyes of young artists. You’ll find nearly 200 reasons to be proud of our schools, teachers and students.”
