Grand View University Student Selected for Prestigious Des Moines Arts Festival Emerging Artist Program

April 1, 2026

Grand View University student Heather Smith has been selected for the 2026 Emerging Artist Program at the Des Moines Arts Festival, earning recognition among a highly competitive group of up-and-coming artists.

The Des Moines Arts Festival, held June 26–28, 2026, in downtown Des Moines’ Western Gateway Park, is one of the nation’s most celebrated arts festivals, drawing more than 150,000 visitors each year and featuring nearly 200 of the country’s top artists.

Smith’s selection places her among a limited number of emerging artists chosen through a rigorous jury process that evaluates submissions based on artistic quality and originality. Like professional exhibitors, applicants must meet strict criteria and submit their work for blind review, making the honor especially competitive. 

The Emerging Artist Program, presented by Principal, is designed to support artists who are beginning their careers by providing an opportunity to exhibit and sell their work in a professional festival setting. The program is open to artists with limited exhibition experience and aims to foster both artistic growth and professional development.

As part of the program, Smith will showcase her work during the three-day festival, engaging with attendees and demonstrating her artistic process alongside fellow emerging artists. Participants also receive mentorship and guidance to help prepare them for future opportunities in the art world.

Congratulations Heather!