ARTiFAX

I am very proud to share that Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has launched ARTiFAX, a new art recognition program created exclusively for FCPS teen artists in grades 7–12 enrolled in visual art programs. Designed to honor artistic excellence, creative growth, and student voice, ARTiFAX highlights the depth and diversity of visual arts education across the school division.

This new recognition program was imagined, designed, and produced by the visual arts team in the fine arts office and middle school and high school art department chairs. We could not have done this without the incredible support of our art faculty across grade levels. They served as judges, digital asset processors, installation teams, and members of the ceremony workforce. It was a monumental undertaking that began in August,

The ARTiFAX Awards recognizes exceptional achievement to student-submitted artworks. Submissions were reviewed and judged across a range of categories, including Artistry, Authentic Voice, Collaborative Artwork, Creative Process, Cultural Context, Emerging Artist, Reflective Voice, Senior Portfolios, and Thematic Concept, ensuring that both technical skill and meaningful artistic intent were celebrated.

In addition to category awards, every participating school selected a “Best In School” honoree, further emphasizing the program’s commitment to recognizing excellence at the school level while elevating student artists countywide.

An exhibition featuring award-winning ARTiFAX artworks will be on view at Northern Virginia Community College’s Ernst Community Cultural Center in Annandale from February 12 through March 13. The ARTiFAX Awards Ceremony and reception was held this past  Wednesday, February 25. It was graciously supported by our community! Standing room only left in the auditorium during the ceremony. 

ARTiFAX affirms Fairfax County Public Schools’ ongoing commitment to arts education and to providing meaningful platforms that recognize, support, and amplify the creative voices of young artists.