The Orange County Asian Committee (OCAC) proudly celebrated the sixth year of its Asian-Inspired Art Contest and Exhibition in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
Organized in partnership with Orange County Public Schools and Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs, the annual contest provides artists of all ages with an opportunity to showcase their creativity while celebrating the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and stories of Asia through art.
This year, the contest received more than 102 remarkable submissions, reflecting the talent, passion, and cultural appreciation of artists throughout Central Florida. After careful review, 51 outstanding works were selected for exhibition, creating a vibrant display that inspired visitors and fostered meaningful cultural connections.
The Orange County Asian Committee extends its sincere appreciation to all participating artists and offers heartfelt congratulations to those whose artwork was selected for exhibition. Their contributions helped make this year’s event one of the most successful and impactful to date.
According to OCAC Events Chair Shally Wong, the contest has become one of the committee’s most rewarding community initiatives.
“This event continues to receive tremendous support and appreciation from communities beyond Orange County, including participants and visitors from Lake County and Hillsborough County,” Wong said. “Its growth demonstrates the importance of programs like this that bring people together, encourage cultural understanding, and celebrate the diversity that strengthens our community.”
The Orange County Asian Committee is one of four Employee Resource Groups within Orange County Government dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered. Beyond serving County employees, OCAC actively partners with local nonprofit organizations and community leaders to promote cultural awareness, support community engagement, and uplift underserved populations throughout Central Florida.
Through initiatives like the Asian-Inspired Art Contest, the Orange County Asian Committee continues to build bridges across cultures, celebrate diversity, and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue and community engagement.
OCAC extends its sincere appreciation to this year’s distinguished panel of judges, whose time, expertise, and dedication were instrumental in the selection process. Special thanks to Qin Zhang of the Asian Handicrafts Foundation USA Inc.; Meghan Dawson, Administrative Office Coordinator for Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs; Emmanuel De Guzman, artist and former award recipient; Gary Lau, founder of Asia Trend, artist, and former award recipient; and Leila Elguennich, artist and graduate of the University of Central Florida College of Arts and Humanities.
As the committee continues to expand its outreach and programming, it invites the community to stay connected and support future events by following OCACFL on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Rewatch the ceremony – otv.ocfl.net/otv/Internal/AsianArtContest/052626/AsianInspiredArtContest_052626.mp4
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