Arts on the Coast is thrilled to announce the selected artists for this year’s Art in Bloom, following an incredible response to our call for entries.

This year, we received 49 submissions—each one a compelling reflection of the creativity, talent, and diversity within our artistic community. The strength and quality of the work made the selection process both exciting and challenging.

To ensure a thoughtful and impartial review, we invited three independent judges—none of whom are members of Arts on the Coast—to evaluate the submissions. After careful consideration, 23 works were selected to be featured in the 2026 Art in Bloom event.

While not every submission could be included in the main exhibition, we are proud to share that several of the non-selected works were showcased during our Sponsor Preview Party on March 26 at the Great Oaks Bank Estes Gallery. These pieces were exceptionally well received and contributed to a vibrant and celebratory evening dedicated to the arts.

The event itself was a true reflection of the community that supports Arts on the Coast. Story Oak Media captured the evening with a highlight reel, preserving the energy and spirit of the night, while Blushed Bakes by Reva generously provided a stunning (and delicious) cake that added a special touch to the celebration.

We are honored to present the artists whose work will be featured in this year’s Art in Bloom:
Brenna Baluh, Marilyn Brady, Madison Byler, Tom Curran, Christy Dagsaan, Denise Dininger, Paul Downs, Jennifer Hardin, Kathleen Hatcher, Rebecka Hess, Julia Kamenskikh, Jennel LaCoe, Patricia Mathews, Leslie Murphy, Brittany Nearhoof, Charles Opper, Diane Reeves, Dylan Shweiky, Lauren Shweiky, Tiffani Taylor, Courtney Trowman, Sarah Volker, and Heather L. Young.

In addition to our talented visual artists, Art in Bloom is brought to life through the creativity of our participating floral designers, who interpret each selected work through unique and expressive botanical installations. Their contributions transform the exhibition into a fully immersive experience—bridging fine art and floral design in a way that is both dynamic and deeply engaging.

Participating Floral Designers:
Ryan Cox of The Flower Factory
Ellie Delaney of Ellie's Flower Shop
Jennifer Frerichs of Everbloom
Laurie Karian of Amuse Bespoke Floral Design and Events
Sophie Kuzma & Jackie McVaugh of Harvey Designs
Jennel LaCoe of Just Jennel Creations
Katherine Lamb of A to Zinnias
Rachel Maddox
Justin McBride of Heart and Soil
Michele Mikulec of Madame Chrysanthemum
McKenzie Millard of Hey Jude Florals
Sydney Newsome of Syd Nichole
Connie Ross of John Davis Florist
Serina Driggers, Lindsey Staffieri & Sebrell Smith of Sandfly Flower Shop
Megan Sullivan of I Beg Your Garden
Melanie Waldo of Heart and Soil

We invite you to explore all of the beautiful works submitted this year and join us in celebrating the remarkable talent within our community.

Join us for Art in Bloom and be part of a celebration where art and nature intersect. Whether you are attending, supporting, or simply exploring the work, your presence helps continue the momentum of this vibrant creative community.

As always, thank you to our members for continuing to make Arts on the Coast such a dynamic and inspiring organization.