The Delaware Division of the Arts is proud to host the 14th Annual Delaware State Employee Art Exhibition, showcasing the artistic talents of state employees and their immediate family members. The free exhibition will be open to the public from February 23 – March 20, 2026, at the Arts Center/Gallery at Delaware State University in Dover.
This year, 219 State of Delaware employees and their family members submitted artwork to compete for awards and cash prizes. Categories include Adult (Amateur, Intermediate, and Professional), Teen, and Youth, with winners receiving monetary awards ranging from $50 to $400. A Best of Show and People’s Choice Awards will also be presented.
New this year: Governor Matt Meyer will recognize three Governor’s Choice winners—one from each county (Kent, New Castle, and Sussex). Each Governor’s Choice recipient will receive a formal award, and their selected artwork will be displayed in the Governor’s Office for the year, showcasing the creativity of Delaware’s public workforce in one of the state’s most visible public spaces.
Beyond recognizing artistic talent, the exhibition underscores the importance of creativity in the workplace and its role in fostering innovation across state agencies. “Creativity is at the heart of innovation, and Delaware state employees embody that every day—whether through problem-solving, collaboration, or finding new ways to serve the people of Delaware,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “This exhibition celebrates the creativity that helps public servants think differently, connect across agencies, and deliver better results for Delawareans. I’m especially pleased to introduce three Governor’s Choice Awards this year, recognizing one outstanding work from each county and highlighting the talent found in every corner of our state.
By providing state employees with an outlet for creative expression, the exhibition highlights the significance of recognizing and nurturing talent in and out of the workplace. Studies have shown that engaging in the arts enhances problem-solving skills, boosts morale, and fosters an environment of innovation.
“Creativity is not separate from public service, it strengthens it,” said Delaware Division of the Arts Director Jessica Ball. “The State Employee Art Exhibition offers a welcoming space for employees and their families to share their work with the community, and for all of us to see the imagination, perspective, and discipline that exists throughout state government. We invite Delawareans to visit the gallery, celebrate the artists, and enjoy a free exhibition that reflects the people who serve our state every day.”
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Creativity is at the heart of innovation, and as public servants, you demonstrate it every day—whether through problem-solving, collaboration, or finding new ways to serve the people of Delaware. Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate another expression of that creativity: the 250 talented employees who submitted artwork for the 15th Annual Delaware State Employee Art Exhibition.
This exhibition is a reminder that the arts are not separate from our daily lives—they are woven into the fabric of who we are. The same ingenuity that drives artistic expression also fuels the work we do across state government. Your ability to think differently, see new possibilities, and express unique perspectives is what makes Delaware stronger.
To each of you who submitted your work: congratulations. Your creativity is inspiring, and I encourage you to continue developing your craft. More importantly, I urge you to bring that same creative spirit into your work each day. Delaware benefits when its public servants lead with imagination, innovation, and heart.
Thank you for sharing your talents with us, and I look forward to seeing all the ways you continue to make our state a better place—both through your art and your service.
– Governor Matt Meyer
On behalf of the Delaware Division of the Arts and the Delaware State Arts Council, I want to extend my sincere congratulations and appreciation to all 219 artists who submitted their work for the 15th Annual Delaware State Employee Art Exhibition. Your participation in this showcase is a testament to the incredible creativity that exists within our state workforce, and we are honored to celebrate your talents.
Art is an integral part of our daily lives. It inspires, connects, and enriches our communities, often in ways we may not even realize. Creativity is not confined to the studio—it is found in the innovative solutions we bring to our work, the ways we serve the public, and the perspectives we bring to our roles across every Division. This exhibition is a powerful reminder that the arts and creativity thrive within our state agencies, reflecting the diverse talents and passions of our employees.
Whether you are an experienced artist or exploring your craft, I applaud you for sharing your work with us. Your dedication to artistic expression is not only personally rewarding but also enhances the cultural fabric of our state. I encourage you to continue refining your skills, pushing creative boundaries, and finding new ways to share your artistry with others. Once again, congratulations to all who submitted their work. Thank you for inspiring us with your creativity, and we look forward to seeing how your artistic journey continues to evolve.
– Director Jessica Ball
Exhibit Dates: February 25 – March 21, 2025
People’s Choice Voting: February 25 – March 20, 2025
Reception: March 9, 2025
Click here for a visitor’s guide and map of Delaware State University’s campus.
Sponsored by the National Arts Program and the Delaware Division of the Arts, this program is designed to give Delaware state employees and their families, at any skill level, a unique opportunity to exhibit their artwork and compete for ribbons and cash prizes. Each year, the exhibit is judged by different professionals in the visual arts.
Best of Show: TBA
People’s Choice Award (Facebook): TBA
People’s Choice Award (Ballot): TBA
Art Education Award: TBA
Special Awards:
Professional:
First Place – TBA
Second Place – TBA
Third Place – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Intermediate:
First Place – TBA
Second Place – TBA
Third Place – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Amateur:
First Place – TBA
Second Place – TBA
Third Place – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Teen (13-18 years old):
First Place – TBA
Second Place – TBA
Third Place – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Youth (12 years and under):
First Place – TBA
Second Place – TBA
Third Place – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Honorable Mention – TBA
Important Dates
Exhibit Dates: February 23 – March 20, 2026
People’s Choice Voting: February 23 – March 20, 2026
Reception: March 8, 2026
Artwork Pick Up: March 23-28, 2026 or March 31, 2026
Carvel State Office Building
820 North French Street,
4th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19801
302.577.8278 |
302.577.6561
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