The eleventh biennial Young Tennessee Artists exhibition showcases some of the finest two-dimensional artwork by high school students from across the state. Students in Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) studio art programs during the 2025–26 academic year were invited to submit their work to be considered for inclusion in the exhibition. After reviewing nearly six hundred entries from students in private and public schools, the jurors selected works by thirty-three artists.

Upper-level studio art courses make it possible for highly motivated students to build and refine their portfolios through ongoing investigation, practice, and reflection. At the end of the school year, each student’s portfolio is reviewed by AP or IB examiners. Students may subsequently receive college course credit or other recognition of their accomplishments. This exhibition illuminates their skillful synthesis of form, technique, and content. The array and quality of works on view demonstrate the growing sophistication and diversity of experiences within the AP and IB studio art programs across Tennessee.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the selection committee:
Lakesha Calvin, artist and associate professor at Fisk University
Lurlynn Franklin, curator, artist, and professor at the University of Memphis

Advanced Placement is a registered trademark of the College Board. International Baccalaureate is a registered trademark of the IB Organization. The institutions were not involved in the production of and do not endorse this exhibition.

Organized by the Frist Art Museum