In addition to the thousands of 4-H and FFA members that bring their award-winning livestock to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ each year, there are also amazing young artists-in-the-making that enter their works of art.

The School Art Program, which began in 1964, has more than 300,000 entries each year. Since 1964, the School Art Program has received more than 7 million entries. These exhibitors are not washing and brushing animals — they are diligently brushing canvas with acrylics or pastels, and shaping sculptures, among other things. Participants range from pre-K through 12th grade. These artists must submit an original project based on Western culture, history or heritage.

Every participant in the School Art Program is a winner, receiving a certificate of merit, signed by the Show president, and a blue, red or white ribbon for achievement. Special recognition is bestowed upon selected works and the artists who created them. The “Best of Show,” “Gold Medal” and “Special Merit” winners have their work prominently displayed in the Show’s Hayloft Gallery throughout the run of the Show.

During the Show, approximately 50 pieces of art, as determined by the Grand Prix Judging, are auctioned. The 2007 School Art Auction brought in more than $1.5 million in sales.

The unique Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Program is one of the many ways of supporting education while encouraging and rewarding the youth of Texas for their talents and abilities.