Be Optimistic about opportunities for children in our community… because something extraordinary is happening this April.
The Battle Creek Optimist Club is excited to announce the return of the Optimist Excellence in Art Competition — a dynamic celebration of creativity, talent, and youth achievement across Calhoun County.
📅 SAVE THE DATE: April 24, 2026
This inspiring event provides school-aged children (Pre-K through 12th grade) the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents in a public exhibition that highlights both individual creativity and collaborative achievement.
📍 Event Location & Exhibition Details
The artwork will be displayed April 19–24, from noon to 5 p.m., at Lakeview Square Mall, located in the community room near Horrocks and Barnes & Noble.
Participation is:
- ✅ Open to Pre-K–12 students
- ✅ Sponsored by a teacher or mentor
- ✅ FREE to enter
- ✅ FREE to attend
📌 Student registration deadline: March 18, 2026
Last year’s impact was incredible:
- 906 student registrations
- Over 1,200 visitors throughout the week and Awards Night
🏆 Awards Night – April 24, 2026 (5:00–7:00 p.m.)
The celebration culminates with a casual and exciting Awards Night on Friday, April 24.
To ensure families have the best experience possible, awards will be presented in scheduled groupings:
- 🎨 Elementary: 5:15 p.m.
- 🎨 Junior High: 5:45 p.m.
- 🎨 High School: 6:15 p.m.
Competition Categories
Students may compete in one of three categories:
- Individual (one entry per student)
- Collaboration (2–5 students)
- Group (6 or more students)
The collaboration category was introduced last year and received an enthusiastic response — so it’s back again in 2026!
💰 Cash Prizes & Scholarships
Students will compete for $2,475 in cash and prizes, with judging based on:
- Technical Skill
- Originality
- Medium
Returning judges include:
- Heather Stratton & Cat Stasevich, Art Instructors at Kellogg Community College
- Brandon D-Arcangelo, Admissions Counselor at Kendall School of Art and Design
In previous years, Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University awarded scholarships to standout student artists — a powerful example of how this competition can open doors to future educational opportunities.
🍎 Recognizing Outstanding Educators
Two special teacher awards will also be presented:
- Optimist Excellence in Art Teacher of the Year Award
- Art of the Optimist Award
These honors celebrate educators and supporters who elevate art education and champion youth creativity throughout the region.
🌳 The Wish Tree Returns
A beloved feature of the event, the Wish Tree will once again provide direct support to local art classrooms.
Visitors can:
- Select a tag listing requested art supplies
- Purchase items (cash/check during the week; credit cards accepted during Awards Night)
- Directly impact local art programs
Wish Tree purchases will be available April 19–24, noon to 5 p.m.
🤝 How You Can Support
This event succeeds because of community involvement.
You can:
- Attend the art show
- Celebrate students at Awards Night
- Become a sponsor
Sponsorships from local businesses and community members help achieve four vital purposes:
- Provide children opportunities to showcase and grow their artistic talents
- Increase awareness of the importance of art education
- Raise funds to support art programming in local schools
- Educate the community about the Optimist Club’s positive impact
To sponsor or learn more, contact a Battle Creek Optimist member, visit their Facebook page, call 269-760-2394, or email optimistbattlecreek@gmail.com.
🌟 Inspiring Creativity. Building Confidence. Supporting Youth.
The Optimist Excellence in Art Competition is more than an art show — it is a celebration of imagination, mentorship, and community support for young people.
Mark your calendar for April 24, 2026, and help us continue being Optimistic about opportunities for children in our community.
