The Emerging Artist Program recognizes the talent of young local artists and offers them opportunities to participate in Cottonwood Art Festival and to grow professionally.  

It is through the generosity of our sponsor, Neighborhood Credit Union, that students have the chance to participate in a month-long exhibit at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts and sell their work at the festival alongside professional artists. Emerging Artists can also win awards and scholarships and attend professional development workshops.

Submission Requirements:

• All applicants must be high school sophomores, juniors or seniors and must either attend a Richardson ISD school or live in the City of Richardson.
• Students can apply with any visual art (E.g. painting, photography, pottery)
• The following must be included in the application:
  • Five (5) digital images of the student’s artwork (.jpeg format only). If chosen, student must exhibit submitted images at the Eisemann Center.
  • A brief artist statement or bio (paragraph) explaining their interest in art or medium of choice and their future plans, if any, to pursue an art degree. 

The following students were selected to participate in the 2025 program.