Oyster River High School (ORHS) is celebrating an exceptional year in the 2026 Scholastic Art Awards, with students earning a total of 50 awards for their outstanding creativity and craftsmanship. Thirty-two students were recognized, several for multiple works of art. 

This year’s honors include: 

• 1 American Vision Award nominee 
• 8 Gold Keys 
• 15 Silver Keys 
• 27 Honorable Mentions 

ORHS senior Lilly Smith, who earned a Gold Key for her mixed-media piece Heavy. She is also one of only five students statewide nominated for the American Vision Award.

Students’ artwork will be exhibited at the Durham Public Library in March. The opening reception is Tuesday, March 3, 5:00-7:00 p.m.