USD 497 Vanguard Awards

USD 497 Vanguard Awards

The annual USD 497 exhibition features student work selected by K-12 art teachers in the Lawrence Public Schools. This exhibit spotlights the value of arts learning and the importance of arts programs in public education. 

From 4-6 pm, there will be open studios with free artmaking and activities.  At 6:30 pm, we will announce the winners of the 2024 Vanguard Awards on the Main Stage.  

ABOUT THE AWARDS

The Lawrence Vanguard Awards honor youth achievement in the visual arts during the USD497 Art Exhibition. These juried awards are focused on identifying remarkable talent, skill, and originality in young visual artists in Lawrence Public Schools.

Vanguard Award: $1200 is awarded to each of the top 2D and top 3D high school artists in the USD 497 show whose work demonstrates the highest overall quality, originality, and skill. The prize is intended to support the student’s continued study in the visual arts.

Trailblazer Award: $600 is awarded to a 2D and 3D student whose work is of high quality and demonstrates exceptional experimentation, innovation, and skill. The prize is intended to support the student’s continued study in the visual arts. 

Catalyst Award: $150 is awarded to the USD 497 instructors of the winning students. Prize money is intended to support the teacher’s continued pursuit of excellence in the classroom and studio practice. 

Vanguard Emerging Artist Awards: A free visual art class is awarded to one student in each grade K-8 for high-quality work demonstrating exceptional experimentation, innovation, and skill. The prize is intended to support the student’s continued study of visual art. The winning students’ teacher also receives a free class at the Lawrence Arts Center.