CHICKASHA – High school artists across Oklahoma can win cash at the statewide Innovations art contest, but registration is due Feb. 28 at the University of Science and Arts in Chickasha.

Cash prizes, public exhibition and multiple awards are up for grabs for the winners of this year’s annual competition at USAO. Registration is open to all Oklahoma high school junior and senior artists. Students may use any preferred media.

“Innovations is a great opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to visually display their art in a competitive arena,” said Jacquelyn Knapp, assistant professor of art. “I am continually impressed with the amount of talent coming out of high school art programs in Oklahoma and surrounding states.”

Students throughout the state may submit up to three original pieces of art for the competition. Entry fees are $3 per work. The deadline for all submissions is Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. Entries may be mailed to the USAO Art Department or delivered in person on Feb. 28 to the third floor of Davis Hall.

Last spring, students from nearly 20 high schools across the state won awards for their original works in a variety of media. Previous entries have included photography, watercolor, acrylic paint, steel, wire, ceramics and more.

Knapp credits school instructors for the success of their students and the art contest.

“Art teachers in the public school system are doing a fantastic job preparing students for exhibitions and a possible career in art,” she said. “Last year we had more than 300 entries in various media.”

The awards presentation for the contest is scheduled for March 16 at 1 p.m. at the University. Award-winning exhibits will be displayed in the Third Floor Art Gallery in Davis Hall from March 5-16. Awards include Best of Show, Judges’ Choice and Awards of Merit. Cash prizes will be determined based on the number of entries received.

All entries will be judged by a panel composed of USAO art faculty.

“We can see the level of talent that is offered and this assists us in possible recommendations for university scholarships,” Knapp said. “These kids work very hard in preparing, creating and presenting their work for the opportunity to show in a university setting.”

Interested students and art teachers can view rules and download registration and entry forms by visiting www.usao.edu/news and clicking the Innovations 2007 button.

Additional information about the Innovations art competition is available from Jacquelyn Knapp at (405) 574-1303 or by email at facknappj@usao.edu.