Now in its fifth year, the League of Women Voters of Pullman’s annual Visual Arts Competition is a wrap with students from throughout the county having explored civic life through a variety of creative expressions. 

The competition’s theme, inspired by Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown’s message at the state League Convention in June, was “90% Happens Locally.” 

Students in grades 3–12 reflected on how local government decisions shape their daily lives — and their responses were thoughtful, imaginative, and inspiring. 

Judging the artwork was no easy task. A panel of local leaders — including the Pullman mayor, a Pullman City Council member, and the Whitman County Auditor— reviewed each piece, considering a work’s relevance to the theme, visual effectiveness, originality, and clarity of message.  

The art was displayed at Neill Public Library, giving the community an opportunity to view entries. The exhibit culminated in a mid-April Artists’ Reception, highlighted by students speaking about their work.   

Additional displays are planned in downtown Pullman for the May Art Walk and at the Whitman County Library’s Libey Gallery through June. 

Supported by the League’s Education Fund, the program connects youth, art and civic understanding, said event committee chair Carolyn Joswig-Jones.