2026 Upstate living art contest Winners and Award Reception

On August 13, Upcountry Fiber gathered with neighbors, families, and friends at the Cooper Library at Clemson University to celebrate the winners of its second annual art contest. The evening brought together artists from across the Upstate, along with their families, this year’s judges, representatives from Upcountry Fiber, Blue Ridge Electric Co-op, and Clemson University. 

This year’s contest asked artists to capture their favorite part of living in the Upstate through their artwork. Thirty-five artists rose to the occasion, submitting original pieces inspired by the mountains, favorite trails, family pets, front porches, and all the small moments that make this region feel like home. 

A New Home for the Reception

For its second year, the contest found a fitting new venue. After Clemson dean of libraries, Chris Cox, an Upcountry Fiber customer himself, reached out following one of the contest’s email announcements, Clemson University Libraries offered to host the reception at the Cooper Library. This brought the celebration to a wider audience and gave the evening a beautiful new backdrop. 

“Clemson University Libraries is honored to host this year’s winners and their families at the Cooper Library,” said Dean Cox. “This contest brings our community together to celebrate creativity, and we’re excited to welcome these talented artists to our campus.” 

Celebrating the Winners 

Guests gathered to hear from Upcountry Fiber CEO, Chris Townson, who opened the evening by reflecting on what the contest means to the community it serves. 

“This contest is now in its second year, and what strikes me most is how honestly it captures what this community loves about the place we all call home,” Townson said. “Behind every piece of art on display tonight is a story, a memory, a favorite place, and we are grateful to each artist who was willing to share that with us.” 

Winners were recognized across four age categories: 3-8, 9-12, 13-17, and 18 and older. First-place winners received a $100 gift card, second-place winners a $50 gift card, and third-place winners a $25 gift card. 

This year also introduced something new: a People’s Choice award, decided entirely by the community through voting on Upcountry Fiber’s Facebook page. Congratulations to all of the winners!

Keeping the Art on Display 

Following the reception, this year’s winning artwork remained on display at the Cooper Library before making its way to Upcountry Fiber’s office in Seneca, where it will stay up for the community to enjoy. 

“This contest has given us the chance to see the Upstate through fresh eyes, the way our neighbors, students, and families see the place they call home,” said Max Crawford, senior marketing and communications education manager at Upcountry Fiber. “Every piece of artwork on display tells us something about why this region means so much to the people who live here.” 

To every artist who submitted a piece, thank you for sharing your perspective on what makes the Upstate worth celebrating. Upcountry Fiber can’t wait to see what next year’s contest brings.