The St. Simons Land Trust was honored to participate as a judge in the 2026 CoastFest Art Contest, an annual celebration that showcases the creativity of young artists and their connection to Georgia’s coastal environment.
This year, SSLT had the opportunity to present its Future Steward of the Coast Award, a recognition given to a student whose artwork not only captures the beauty of the coast but also reflects a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of its ecosystems.
“When entering the judging process, we kept the spirit of this award front of mind,” said Raleigh Kitchen, who represented the Land Trust as a judge. “We were looking for a piece that celebrates our coastal habitats while inspiring care for the lands, waters, and wildlife that make our region so special.”
Among many impressive submissions, one piece stood out immediately. Created by a student from Mary Lee Clark Elementary School, the winning artwork captured the judges’ attention with its vibrant use of color and its thoughtful portrayal of the coastal environment. The piece beautifully illustrated the interconnected nature of the coast—where land, water, and wildlife coexist and depend on one another.
“Those of us who work in conservation understand that protecting our environment requires seeing the full picture,” Kitchen noted. “This piece reflects that idea in a powerful and inspiring way.”
In addition to recognizing the student’s achievement, the Land Trust looks forward to connecting further with the winning artist and their classmates. Plans are underway to deliver the award in person, along with a presentation about the importance of coastal conservation and how young people can play an active role in stewardship. The Land Trust also plans to provide students with its Passport to Preservation booklets to encourage continued exploration and learning.
We truly appreciate the educators who make opportunities like this possible. By fostering creativity and curiosity, teachers play a vital role in shaping the next generation of environmental stewards.
Through partnerships like CoastFest, the St. Simons Land Trust remains committed to inspiring appreciation for the coast—and empowering young voices to help protect it for years to come.