February 16, 2026
Spiva Center for the Arts - Watercolor USA 2026
Watercolor USA is a prestigious national competitive exhibition celebrating excellence in water media painting. Now in its second year at Spiva Center for the Arts in Joplin, Missouri, the exhibition continues a remarkable legacy that began at the Springfield Art Museum in Springfield, Missouri, where it was hosted from 1962 through 2023. Spiva is deeply honored to once again steward this historic exhibition and carry forward its tradition of showcasing outstanding water media artistry. We are also thrilled to welcome Carol Carter as the juror for Watercolor USA 2026.
Cash Prizes Awarded by George A. Spiva Center for the Arts: 1st Place| Kenneth M. Shuck Memorial Award -$3,000 2nd Place | Greg G. Thielen Memorial Award – $2,000 3rd Place | Bill Armstrong Memorial Award – $1,500 4th Place | Robert E. Goodier Memorial A
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