Pitt-Bradford Arts, in partnership with Leadership McKean, is proud to present “Why I Love McKean County: A Young Artists’ Celebration” — a juried art exhibition inviting McKean County youth ages 5 to 18 to share what makes their community special.

The exhibition is part of America 250, the nationwide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States and aims to honor that milestone through a deeply local lens: the eyes of McKean County’s young people.

“This exhibition is an opportunity to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday by showcasing local pride and community spirit while providing young artists throughout McKean County a platform to share their unique perspectives,” organizers said.

“Why I Love McKean County” invites young artists to explore what makes this place home. Submissions might capture the county’s sweeping natural landscapes, beloved local communities and neighborhoods, cultural traditions and heritage, favorite memories, meaningful places, or the people who give McKean County its character — anything that tells the story of this community through a young artist’s eyes.

Works may be created in any visual art form, including drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media and photography. Selected pieces will be displayed in the KOA Art Gallery in Blaisdell Hall at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford from June through mid-July 2026, with an opening celebration planned for June 5.

Through this collaboration, Pitt-Bradford Arts and Leadership McKean are bringing together arts education, community engagement and civic celebrations to create a lasting tribute to McKean County and the nation’s milestone anniversary.

All students aged 5-18 living in McKean County are welcome to take part, including public, private and homeschool students. Entry is free, and students may send up to three pieces. All artwork must be no larger than 16 inches by 20 inches, including any frame or matting. The application deadline is May 8, 2026. Applications and submission instructions are available at www.upb.pitt.edu/theArts.

For more information, contact upbarts@pitt.edu.