RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) invites high school students from Western South Dakota to participate in the annual Best of the West art exhibition and competition. This is a juried exhibition that celebrates the creativity, talent, and diverse voices of the region’s young artists and provides the opportunity for students to showcase their artwork in a professional gallery setting.

Formerly focused on Rapid City Area Schools, the RCAC is excited to expand this exhibition to a wider region. Students in 9-12th grade from Butte, Lawrence, Meade, Pennington, Custer, Fall River, and Oglala counties are encouraged to share their creative vision for a chance to win cash prizes that will be awarded during an awards ceremony on May 15 at 6pm.

The submission process is simple. Students will fill out an online application and submit photographs to entries@thedahl.orgwith the subject line: “BOTW- 26 [Your Last Name]” by April 17. Jurors will select this year’s participants through a blind jurying process based on creativity, originality, and quality of the work submitted. Selected pieces of art can be dropped off at the Dahl Arts Center or select locations in Spearfish, Hot Springs, Pine Ridge, and Custer.

The Best of the West Exhibition provides high school students with the opportunity to showcase their talents while fostering a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and respect. By participating, students contribute to a celebration of art that reflects creativity, inclusivity, and integrity. Thank you for joining us in this journey to highlight the artistic excellence in our community!

For more information and how to submit, please visit: thedahl.org/botw.