The Conroe Independent Western Art Show sponsored by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) Association featured about 650 student art pieces. Each work of art portrayed a western theme. Conroe ISD students grades K-12 from all 58 campuses were showcased. Conroe ISD art teachers prepared the display of work that was judged by a team from the HLSR Association.

Twelve students had their art work selected for exhibition in the Hayloft Gallery at Reliant Center for the duration of the rodeo. The chosen artwork will also be eligible for auction, which funds student scholarships.

Winners in each category along with the art teacher include:

Best of Show: Ignacio Garcia (11), The Woodlands High School, James Kitchen, teacher; Dorothy Nie (7), McCullough Junior High School, Laurie Adams, teacher; Payton Kahn (4), Giesinger Elementary School, Tricia Matthews, teacher.

Gold Medal Award: Brice Cooper (11), Oak Ridge High School, Summer French, teacher; Martha Ortiz (11), The Woodlands High School, James Kitchen, teacher; Kelly Shen (7), York Junior High School, Kristi Foldetta, teacher; and Jeannie McClelland (4), Reaves Elementary School, Kathy Moore, teacher.