The Office of Undergraduate Studies and the Graduate School at Florida State University are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Excellence in the Visual Arts Exhibition Awards, recognizing outstanding artistic achievement among undergraduate and graduate students.
The Excellence in the Visual Arts Exhibition Awards are given annually to exceptional undergraduate and graduate students whose work demonstrates innovation, rigor, and a high level of artistic accomplishment. Selected by a panel of jurors, these works reflect the breadth of creative research and visual inquiry taking place across the university.
This year’s award recipients include:
BA/BFA Awards
Best of Show: Ricky Blosser, Jade Hejduk
Honorable Mention: Crim May, Riley Galpin, Julia Stephens
People’s Choice Award: Riley Galpin
Honorable Mention: Crim May, Riley Galpin, Julia Stephens
People’s Choice Award: Riley Galpin
MFA Awards
Best of Show: Moey Hewitt, Gulzhan Oralova, Denton Shields
People’s Choice Award: Gulzhan Oralova
Best of Show: Moey Hewitt, Gulzhan Oralova, Denton Shields
People’s Choice Award: Gulzhan Oralova
Together, these artists represent a dynamic range of practices and perspectives, contributing to a vibrant and evolving dialogue within contemporary art. Their work exemplifies the strength of Florida State University’s interdisciplinary creative community and the commitment to excellence fostered across programs.
The artwork of all winners and finalists will be on display at the Honors, Scholars, and Fellows House for one year, from March 2026 through March 2027. This exhibition provides a unique opportunity for the university community and visitors to engage with some of the most compelling student work produced at FSU.
We extend our sincere congratulations to this year’s award recipients and all finalists for their remarkable achievements.
View the exhibition and learn more:
https://hsf.fsu.edu/art-awards
https://hsf.fsu.edu/art-awards