On May 1, 2026 art from students across the district was displayed in the Center of Arts in downtown Aiken and we got a special glimpse before the show.
The art presented was an arrangement of different mediums including ceramics, charcoal, oil paintings, and more. ACPSD students poured their stories into these pieces with dedication and care, and it did not go unnoticed.
"Having the opportunity to witness the incredible talent of our students' artwork from across the district firsthand is truly inspiring," Kim Waters, District Office Manager, noted. "Their creativity, skill, and dedication bring so much joy to our schools and community, and it is an honor to see their work proudly displayed."
The messages and heart behind all the art pieces were previewed early by Amp the Appreciation attendees including ACPSD staff and the community on May 1, 2026. The art remained on display as it moved into the weekend and the Fine Arts Festival began, showcasing the fine pieces to students, families, and teachers from around the district.
"Student art on display is proof that their creativity matters and that what they have to say has a place in our world," Brianna Hofmann, Art Teacher at Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School stated.
We would love to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Aiken Center for the Arts for their partnership and ongoing support for the arts programs at ACPSD. Please see below for the best in show along with the other winners of the 2026 Fine Arts Festival.
Best In Show
Aubreyanna Thomas, Silver Bluff High School
"Melanin Dream"

Elementary School
Place | Student | School | Art Piece |
|---|---|---|---|
1st | Raylee Myers | Belvedere Elementary | Blossom Fort |
1st | Zoey Murray | Cyril B. Busbee Elementary | Untitled |
2nd | Rylee Farthing | Byrd Elementary | Sun/Moon |
2nd | Bella Jenkins | Greendale Elementary | Untitled |
3rd | Nova Randall | Byrd Elementary | Notan |
3rd | Aspen Allen | Hammond Hill Elementary | Untitled |
Middle School
Place | Student | School | Art Piece |
|---|---|---|---|
1st | Annabelle Hermanson | Highland Springs Middle | Moonlight |
2nd | Braelynn Widener | A.L. Corbett Middle | Untitled |
3rd | Emily Doyle | New Ellenton Middle | Emily Basquiat |
High School
Place | Student | School | Art Piece |
|---|---|---|---|
1st | Issak Cover | Silver Bluff High School | The Dark Hour |
2nd | Adriel Garman | South Aiken High School | Chapman in Ink |
3rd | Sunnie Faw | North Augusta High School | Fiber Arts |





























