Texas Youth Showcase Aquatic Artistry in Annual Fish Art Contest Young artists from across Texas have been recognized for their creative talents in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's annual Fish Art Contest. The winning entries, selected from hundreds of submissions, will be featured in the official 2027 Texas Fish Art Calendar and showcased at a public exhibition. The contest encourages students from kindergarten through 12th grade to connect with nature through art and writing, fostering an appreciation for aquatic ecosystems and conservation efforts. This year's competition highlighted a diverse range of fish species and the dedication of young Texans to understanding and protecting their state's natural resources. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has unveiled the talented winners of its highly anticipated annual Fish Art Contest, celebrating the creativity and environmental awareness of young Texans. A total of 14 exceptional artists were chosen from an impressive pool of 714 submissions received statewide. Their vibrant and insightful artwork is set to grace the pages of the 2027 Texas Fish Art Calendar, providing a visual testament to the state's rich aquatic biodiversity. Furthermore, these winning pieces will be publicly displayed, offering a platform for the youth to share their passion and perspective on the natural world. Among the distinguished honorees, Candice Chen from Bee Cave captured the top prize in the 4-6 grade division, impressing judges with her artistic interpretation. Close on her heels were Austin students Eva Huang and Yueran Lang, who secured second and third place respectively, showcasing the burgeoning artistic talent within the city. In the 10-12 grade division, Eliza Chung, also from Bee Cave, earned a commendable second place, demonstrating her keen eye for detail and artistic skill. The 7-9 grade division saw Frisco's Annabelle Yuan claim second place, but her exceptional talent did not stop there. Yuan also received the prestigious Special Species Award for her compelling depiction of the paddlefish, a remarkable creature that Texas has actively protected since 1977 due to significant declines in its population. This award underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating species that are vital to the health of our ecosystems. The Fish Art Contest, a cornerstone of conservation education for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, goes far beyond a simple art competition. Participants are tasked with submitting original artwork of a chosen fish species, accompanied by a creative writing piece. This accompanying text can explore the fish's habitat, its unique characteristics, or the critical conservation efforts required to ensure its survival. Darrel Malone, the education and interpretation coordinator at the fisheries center, emphasized the profound impact of the contest, stating, 'The Fish Art Contest is more than just drawing a fish. It helps our youth to establish a bond with the outdoors.' This sentiment highlights the contest's overarching goal: to foster a deeper connection between young people and the natural environment, encouraging them to become informed and engaged stewards of Texas's valuable natural heritage. The program instills a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems, inspiring the next generation to champion conservation