School Groups
News & Events
18th Annual West TN Regional Student Art Exhibition
This year’s West TN Regional Student Art Exhibition, which ran from Jan. 19 to Feb. 25, 2026, was an undeniable success. Held in partnership with the Tennessee Art Education Association, the event not only showcased the exceptional talent of this year’s middle and high school artists but also continued its tradition of displaying the “best of show” award winners from the past 17 years.
2026 Congressional Art Competition
On April 9, at 5:30 p.m., WTRAC will host an exhibit featuring local finalists from the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, a nationwide program recognizing the artistic talents of high school students. The showcase will highlight original 2D works, with winning pieces advancing to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol. Visitors are invited to experience the creativity and achievement of West Tennessee’s emerging young artists.
Promotions
19th Annual West TN Regional Student Art Exhibition
We look forward to hosting the 19th Annual West TN Regional Student Art Exhibition
This exhibition will run January 2027 – February 2027
Teachers may call 731-784-1787 or email wtrac@aeneas.net for information.
Deadline for entries, November 11, 2026
Benefits for Students
A visit to the West Tennessee Regional Art Center brings art to life for students of all ages. Our programs are designed to inspire creativity, curiosity and learning.
Students can:
- Explore a variety of artistic styles and mediums.
- Participate in interactive tours.
- Connect with the arts in ways that support classroom learning.
- Discover new ideas, skills and inspiration for creative expression.
General Visitors
WTRAC is Tennessee's only museum with a permanent fine art collection between Memphis and Nashville!
News & Events
Celebrating 30 Years
In February, the West Tennessee Regional Art Center marked its 30th anniversary with a special gathering of patrons and friends. Guests enjoyed current exhibitions while also honoring cherished supporters of the arts whom we have recently lost, including Patsy Camp and Ted Murray Jones. The evening reflected the strong sense of community that continues to shape WTRAC’s mission.
WTRAC Participates in 65th Annual TAM Conference
Representatives from WTRAC were privileged to attend this year’s Tennessee Association of Museums (TAM) Conference, held at Discovery Park of America from March 11-13, 2026. The conference’s theme, “Solidarity,” fostered networking among dedicated museum professionals, staff and volunteers. Attendees shared stories and participated in development sessions that highlighted their common purpose: keeping history alive and accessible for all Tennessee residents, now and for future generations.
Strawberry Festival WTRAC Invitational Art Exhibition
The annual WTRAC Invitational Art Exhibition will begin with an opening reception Sunday, May 3, from 2-4 p.m., as part of the beloved West Tennessee Strawberry Festival. Admission is free to the public, and refreshments will be served during the reception. The exhibition will remain on display throughout the month of May.
Promotions
The Caldwell Collection
Donated by Dr. Benjamin and Gertrude Sharp Caldwell, the Center’s permanent collection aims to provide cultural education for people of all ages throughout West Tennessee. Elements of the full collection are permanently on display for visitors to enjoy, including oil paintings, sculpture, watercolor paintings, drawings, prints and lithographs, pastels and silk-screens.