Apply for 2026 Walton County Artist of the Year
Artist of the Year submissions accepted
May 1-31.
The Walton County Artist of the Year Award is a community initiative highlighting local artists, spotlighting their work through diverse publicity channels and events throughout the year. Currently in its 24th year, this accolade honors a local artist whose unique artistic expression captures the essence of the region's creativity and beauty. Artwork submissions are evaluated by a jury panel based on criteria such as originality, authenticity and overall appeal. Finalists will then be called to participate in interviews where they will be required to present three examples of artwork during a panel discussion. The recipient will be granted $4,000 for creating a commissioned artwork to be showcased in Walton County.
The application period opens Friday, May 1. The deadline for submissions is Sunday, May 31 at 5 p.m. CDT. You are welcome to download an application: waltoncountyfltourism.com/userfiles/2026AOYApplication.pdf or fill out the online application at the bottom of this page.
Tourism Director Matt Algarin presents 2025 Artist of the Year award to Mindy Moore.
To learn more about the Artist of the Year program, download the informational flyer or contact Industry Relations Specialist Lisa Foster at (850) 333-2728 or Lisa@WCFLTourism.com.
WALTON COUNTY ARTISTS OF THE YEAR
- 2025 – Mindy Moore
- 2024 – Sarah Page
- 2023 – Bradley Copeland
- 2022 – Joseph Messer
- 2021 – Chandler Williams
- 2020 – Doug Foltz
- 2019 – Jenna Varney
- 2018 – Kathleen Broaderick
- 2017 – Marisol Gullo
- 2016 – Melody Bogle
- 2015 – Juan Adaro
- 2014 – Mary Hong
- 2013 – Andy Saczynski
- 2012 – Allison Craft
- 2011 – Allison Wickey
- 2010 – Michael Granberry
- 2009 – Michael McCarty
- 2008 – Donna Burgess
- 2007 – Bill Stephenson
- 2006 – Phil Kiser
- 2005 – Justin Gaffrey
- 2004 – Susan Lucas
- 2003 – Dorothy Starbuck