CAMDEN, NY - The Camden High School Art Department is pleased to announce its recipients of the Outstanding Junior Artist Award for 2026. This year’s selected honorees are Lynzee Szczesniak and Emma Kratz.
The Outstanding Junior Artist Award is presented to a student who demonstrates tremendous skill and dedication to the fine arts. For consideration, eleventh grade students submit a portfolio of 8-10 pieces of artwork to be judged by the District’s elementary and middle school art teachers, along with building-level and District-level administrators. After careful deliberation, this year’s judging resulted in a tie, and the award’s first-ever co-recipients.
Art department chairperson Amy Andrews went into detail on what made each student stand out.
“Emma stands out for her creativity and willingness to push beyond her comfort zone,” Andrews said. “She is always willing to take chances with her work and never settles for the easy solution. Whether experimenting with new techniques or refining her skills, she challenges herself to grow with every piece she creates. Her dedication to her work is admirable. I am so proud of the artist she has become!”
“Lynzee is always eager to explore new ideas and unique perspectives in her artwork,” Andrews said. “She embraces challenges and pushes herself to take risks and expand her abilities. Her artwork reflects her artistic commitment to learn and grow. With each assignment, she continues to evolve, proving herself to be a driven and dynamic young artist. I am excited to see what she creates during her senior year!”
Both portfolios will receive a featured display at the upcoming Camden Central School District “Growing With The Arts” District-Wide Art Show to be held on May 13th. The show runs from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Camden High School.
Featured Works By Emma Kratz
Featured Works by Lynzee Szczesniak
