Kewanee Prairie Chicken Arts Festival Announces 2026 Winners on Saturday, July 18, 2026
Local artists are celebrating after winners were announced in this year’s Kewanee Prairie Chicken Arts Festival art competition. John Soukup earned the Professional Champion title, taking home a $400 prize for his work. In the adult amateur division, Layla Dev was named champion. Youth honors went to Wyatt Paxton, Royal Wilder, the Wilder/Ingel Team, and Mrs. Stisser’s Yellow Team, recognizing standout creativity from younger competitors. The public also had a say, with People’s Choice Awards going to Olivia Mitchell, Brooklyn Schiltz, and Tim Bryner. Organizers say the event highlighted imagination, color, and community spirit across multiple age groups and skill levels. Visit the “Kewanee Prairie Chicken Arts Festival” Facebook page to stay up-to-date and view activities from the 2026 festival.
Youth (Ages 5–7)
- Champion ($50): #35 – Wyatt Paxton
- 2nd Place ($25): #67 – Bennett Stabler
Youth (Ages 8–10)
- Champion ($50): #51 – Royal Wilder
- 2nd Place ($25): #57 – Cooper Burchan
Youth (Ages 11–13)
- Champion ($50): #53 – Wilder/Ingel Team
- 2nd Place ($25): #66 – Oliver Stabler
Youth (Ages 14–17)
- Champion ($100): #28 – Mrs. Stissers–Yellow Team
- 2nd Place ($50): #24 – Katelyn DeSmit
Adult Amateur
- Champion ($200): #34 – Layla Dev
- 2nd Place ($150): #91 – Bennett Sellner
- 3rd Place ($100): #42 – Alex Hager
Professional
- Champion ($400): #32 – John Soukup
- 2nd Place ($300): #93 – Autumn Zaehringer
- 3rd Place ($200): #86 – Tim Bryner
People’s Choice Awards
- Youth Category ($100 & Plaque): Olivia Mitchell – Sunset
- Amateur Category ($100 & Plaque): Brooklyn Schiltz – Crown of Thorns
- Professional Category ($100 & Plaque): Tim Bryner – Artsy Trash Pandas