Each year, the ARToberFEST Team invites three new jurors to review the artwork submitted to our festival. This rotating panel brings a fresh perspective to the selection process and helps keep ARToberFEST dynamic and exciting for artists and visitors alike.

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Each artist’s work is scored on a scale of 1 to 15, with 15 representing a perfect score. Based on these results, select artists may receive the prestigious Blue Ribbon Honor.

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Some years, several artists are recognized. Other years, no Blue Ribbons are awarded at all. This makes the distinction especially meaningful and highly competitive.

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Blue Ribbon recipients receive more than a ribbon and recognition on the ARToberFEST website. They also earn automatic acceptance into the following year’s festival, along with a complimentary booth space, allowing them to bypass the jury process entirely.

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This year, we are thrilled to recognize three exceptional artists as our 2026 Blue Ribbon Honorees:

Curt Baldwin
Craig Butterworth
Don and Marva O’Bannon

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Through their creativity, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence, these honorees earned the highest recognition bestowed through the ARToberFEST jury process. Their work reflects the extraordinary talent and dedication that make ARToberFEST such a celebrated fine arts festival.

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We are proud to recognize Curt Baldwin, Craig Butterworth, and Don and Marva O’Bannon as our 2026 Blue Ribbon Honorees and look forward to welcoming them back to ARToberFEST in 2027.