Art Is Closer Than You Think: ANAC Traveling Show Comes to Columbus Art Gallery
October 15–31, 2026 | Columbus Art Gallery
You don't have to travel far to experience some of Nebraska's finest artistic talent. This October, the Columbus Art Gallery welcomes the 2026 Association of Nebraska Art Clubs (ANAC) Traveling Show, bringing an impressive collection of award-winning artwork from artists across the state to downtown Columbus.
On display October 15–31, this special exhibition celebrates the creativity, talent, and artistic diversity found throughout Nebraska. From traditional paintings to photography, mixed media, and other unique artistic expressions, visitors will discover just how many ways Nebraska artists bring their ideas to life.
Celebrating Nebraska's Artistic Talent
The Association of Nebraska Art Clubs brings together artists and art organizations from communities across the state, providing opportunities for artistic growth, education, collaboration, and recognition.
Each year, ANAC hosts a statewide conference and juried art exhibition. Artwork advances through local affiliated art clubs before being considered at the statewide level, where a nationally recognized artist serves as judge.
From this competitive process, 25 outstanding works are selected for the annual Traveling Show, giving communities throughout Nebraska an opportunity to experience award-winning artwork close to home.
The traveling exhibition reflects ANAC's commitment to supporting Nebraska artists while making quality art accessible to audiences across the state.
A Collection Worth Exploring
The 2026 exhibition features artwork representing a remarkable range of artistic styles, subjects, and techniques. Visitors will encounter oil and acrylic paintings, watercolor, pastel, photography, woodcarving, stoneware, pencil drawings, mosaics, and mixed-media creations.
Among this year's featured works is "Liz," an oil painting by Kyren Gibson of the Box Butte Art Society, which received the prestigious Best of Show award.
The exhibition also includes 24 Awards of Excellence, recognizing exceptional artistic achievement.
Columbus has a special connection to this year's show through Dana Hoppe of Columbus Area Artists, whose oil painting Self Portrait earned an Award of Excellence and a place in the traveling exhibition.
Other featured works include Inquisitive Crow by Dana Clements, Fire and Ice by Kathy Link, Sandhill Crane by Tim O'Neill, and Time and Memories by David Dorsey.
Together, these works offer a glimpse into the imagination, craftsmanship, and individual perspectives of artists from across Nebraska.
Bringing Art and Communities Together
One of the most meaningful aspects of the ANAC Traveling Show is its ability to connect communities through art.
By bringing award-winning artwork to galleries throughout Nebraska, the program creates opportunities for people of all ages to experience artistic excellence, discover new techniques, and develop a greater appreciation for the creative talent within our state.
For the TRAX Creative District and Columbus Art Gallery, hosting the exhibition is another opportunity to celebrate the arts, support creative expression, and connect our community with Nebraska's broader artistic network.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply looking for something different to experience, the ANAC Traveling Show offers plenty of inspiration.
Plan Your Visit
ANAC Traveling Show — October 15–31, 2026
Location: Columbus Art Gallery
Columbus Community Building, Second Floor
2500 14th Street, Columbus, Nebraska
Gallery Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 1–5 p.m.
Saturday: 1–4 p.m.
An elevator is available for convenient access to the second floor.
Take your time, look closely, and discover a work that speaks to you. You might be surprised by the talent and creativity waiting just around the corner.
Art is closer than you think. Come experience it at the Columbus Art Gallery!
To learn more about the Association of Nebraska Art Clubs and its statewide programs, visit nebraskaartclubs.org.
