From beautiful natural landscapes and farmland to community events and traditions, winning artwork in the I Love My KY County Art Contest feature scenes that depict what students across the Commonwealth love about their respective counties.
The Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo) has named Kylee Crowe of Estill County as the first place winner of this year's art contest. Her artwork is a familiar sight across Kentucky: a bright quilt square atop a weathered gray barn.
"In my drawing, a barn with a quilt square from the Estill County Quilt Square Trail stands as a symbol of my Appalachian roots," Kylee wrote in her artist's statement that was submitted in the contest. "These quilt patterns represent the women who raised me, the farms and back roads that shaped me and the dear heritage I carry forward. I love my county because it is more than just where I live, it is who I am."
The KACo Art Contest, in its third year, serves as a fun way for students in grades Kindergarten through 8 to celebrate county pride and show why Kentucky is a special place to call home. This year KACo received nearly 400 entries.
Boyle County's Avery Long won second place with her colorful picture of a cow, and Porter Branscum of Russell County won third place with her painting of Rockhouse Bottom.
"It's inspiring to see what makes each county special through the eyes of young people," KACo Executive Director Jim Henderson said. "Their artwork captures not only the beauty of our counties but the pride and connection that make each community unique. Congratulations to all of the students who shared their talents in this year's contest."
Grade-level winners include:
- Kindergarten: Lara Barker, Elliott County
- First grade: Ahem Chaurasia, Jefferson County
- Second grade: Cohen Phelps, Butler County
- Third grade: Clara Jesse, Shelby County
- Fourth grade: Victoria Jiminez, Powell County
- Fifth grade: Gracie England, Hart County
- Sixth grade: Kendra Scrogham, Hardin County
- Seventh grade: Bailey Moore, Henderson County
- Eighth grade: Annalee Vincent, Edmonson County
Click here to view the winning artwork and read about what inspired the artists.
Winning artwork will be featured at the annual KACo Conference, in County Line magazine, and in the 2026 KACo calendar.
