79th Annual Paul Whitener Memorial Student Art Show

On Exhibition February 9 - 14, 2026
Hickory Metro Convention Center
Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM | 1960 13th Ave Dr SE, Hickory, NC 28602

Hickory Museum of Art founder and first director Paul Whitener was deeply committed to nurturing creativity in young people. To support this vision, he established an annual student art exhibition—a tradition that continues today in his memory. This year, the 79th Annual Paul Whitener Memorial Student Art Show will be held at the Hickory Metro Convention Center. Participating students represent Hickory City Schools, Catawba County Schools, Newton-Conover City Schools, as well as private schools and homeschools.