March 23, 2026– A Decatur student is among the winners of a statewide art contest exploring America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Tyler Skelley, an 11th grader at Decatur Christian School, earned top honors in the grades 9–12 category in the “America 250: Reflections through Art” contest. The competition is sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Board of Education.
Skelley’s piece explores the concept of “horsepower” as both a mechanical force and a symbol of the nation’s growth. His work, created with marker and colored pencil, is one of four top entries selected across age groups.
Winning artwork will be displayed at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, alongside pieces from eight runners-up.
Other top winners include students from LaGrange, Norridge and Springfield, reflecting on themes of freedom, history and national progress through art.
Officials say the contest encourages students to explore civic ideas and express their perspectives as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
To see all of the winners, click HERE.
