For Immediate Release – June 19, 2021 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA) 2021 Art & Photo Contest sponsored by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum returned for the second year, doubling its participation from 2020.
First place in each age group and category will be on display at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for visitors to see during the 2021 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel. With over 50 entries total, this year’s competition was incredibly tough for the esteemed judges.
“I encourage everyone to take some time away from the heat of the Derby to see these works of art displayed in such a stunning museum,” said Sara Honegger, Youth and Professionals Program manager. “These young artists put so much work into their craft and I am excited how much this contest has grown in just one year, especially with the amount of younger NRHA participants. Congratulations to all!”
The contest judges consisted of Carpenter; Michael R. Grauer, McCasland Chair of cowboy culture/curator of cowboy collections and western art at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; and Steve Miller, vice president, event marketing at NRHA Corporate Partner Montana Silversmiths.
A fan favorite will be voted on through the NRHyA Facebook page ending June 27 at 5 p.m. CDT. The fan-favorite will receive a gift certificate for a pair of boots from NRHA Corporate Partner Anderson Bean Boot Company.
Photography 14-18
First Place: Faith Horner
Second Place: Jaiden Cohlmia
Third Place: Raeanna Thayn
Photography 13 & Under
First Place: Kynlee Cohlmia
Second Place: Gracelyn Hansmeyer
Third Place: Claire Holoubek
Mixed Medium 14-18
First Place: Alexandra Nicole Mueller
Second Place: Hannah Schuck
Third Place: Hannah Schuck
Mixed Medium 13 & Under
First Place: Cassandra Hacking
Second Place: Gracelyn Hansmeyer
Third Place: Cassandra Hacking
Graphic Design 14-18
First Place: Raeanna Thayn
Graphic Design 13 & Under
First Place: Cassandra Hacking
Honorable Mention
Victoria McClure
Not only did Victoria’s art come in just shy of the top three finishes in the Mixed Medium 13 & Under class, but her work also inspired a new category for next year. Starting in 2022, the contest will have a 10 & Under class so younger budding artists can have a space to showcase their talents as well. Congratulations, Victoria, on this honorable mention award!
Faith Horner 
Kynlee Cohlmia 
Alexandra Nicole Mueller 
Cassandra Hacking 
Raeanna Thayn 
Cassandra Hacking 
Victoria McClure
We had a total of nearly 50 entries, almost double from 2020. Congratulations to all who entered and we encourage each of you to enter again next year!
Josselyn Mumm
Michelle Fumagalli
Lillian Bains
JP McClure
Julie Warnick
Isabelle Hildebrandt
Ava Bush
Hayden Jones
Hailey Jones
Logan Putvinski
Cambrey Hedges
Dakota Woodring