The WRAP-Teen Reception held on April 23, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Northcentral Technical College–Antigo Campus brought together students, families, educators, and community members to celebrate the creativity and talent of regional teen artists.
The evening featured a presentation beginning at 6:30 PM, highlighting the Wisconsin Regional Art Program (WRAP) and its teen initiative. Danna Gabriel, regional coordinator for the Antigo exhibit, opened the program with an overview of WRAP and WRAP-Teen. The event was a collaborative effort between the Association of Wisconsin Artists and Antigo Visual Arts.
John Rhode, Langlade County Circuit Court Judge, followed with remarks emphasizing the role of art in supporting mental health. Drawing from his professional experience, he spoke about how creative expression can provide meaningful alternatives for individuals facing life challenges.
Madison Hager, Curator of the Center for the Visual Arts (CVA), then addressed students about the wide range of career opportunities in the arts. She encouraged participants to think beyond traditional studio roles and shared insights from her own career journey, along with an extensive list of art-related professions.
Exhibit juror Kim Schoenrock concluded the presentations, offering thoughtful feedback on the exhibit and encouraging young artists to pursue originality as a foundation for success in gallery settings. She also spoke about the critical role of parents, mentors, and teachers in fostering open, creative thinking. Schoenrock dedicated significant time to carefully reviewing each work of art, ensuring that all categories on the juror sheets were thoroughly considered.
This year’s exhibit featured 62 works of art from throughout the state of Wisconsin. Of these, 15 pieces received State Awards and 16 were recognized with Honorable Mentions. Reception attendees also participated in selecting the Viewer’s Choice Award, which was tallied by Antigo Visual Arts Gallery Director Vicki Eldridge. The Viewer’s Choice Award, sponsored by Antigo Visual Arts, was presented to John McCarthy for his piece “Everyone’s A STAR!”
Local business Sawmill Surplus supported the event by sponsoring four student awards. Julie Volkmann, representing the business, shared, “The youth who have participated in this art show are incredibly talented! The entries are all amazing. I would love to see how each of these young artists continues to grow. Every one of them is a winner in my eyes!”
Kari Lazers, Director of Regional Campuses for Northcentral Technical College, added, “Northcentral Technical College - Antigo Campus is proud to partner with this event that showcases the remarkable talent of our area teens. Providing a space for the public to experience and appreciate their creativity is something we value deeply.”
The event also featured hors d’oeuvres donated by Antigo Visual Arts members and bottled water provided by Northcentral Technical College. Photography for the evening was generously provided by Benjamin Baumgartner.
Antigo Visual Arts extends its sincere thanks to all presenters, juror Kim Schoenrock, dedicated volunteers, Northcentral Technical College for hosting the event, the Antigo School District for the use of exhibit panels, and the Association of Wisconsin Artists for their continued support through WRAP initiatives.
State Award-winning artwork from this exhibit will be eligible for display at the Association of Wisconsin Artists WRAP State Conference at the Pyle Center from August through September 2026.
For more information about WRAP and future exhibits, visit the AWA website.
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