ALASKA—Alaska is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, including all five Pacific salmon species.   

Each year, Alaska's young artists are invited to take part in the Alaska State Fish Art competition. They are asked to send in artwork depicting fish found across the state in different environments. This year’s species is Sockeye or ‘red’ salmon.

Wildlife Forever, the Forest Service and other sponsors host the yearly challenge. Wildlife Forever celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and received more than 55,000 entries for the overall contest. The annual competition introduces youth to conservation and fishing.

These young artists, who compete in categories from kindergarten to grade 12, use a variety of art mediums to invoke the beauty of these aquatic creatures and their surroundings. Tongass and Chugach national forests are crucial habitats for fish and other aquatic species.  

The Forest Service also sponsors the Alaska Fish Heritage Award. This category celebrates the cultural, recreational and economic importance of commercial, sport and subsistence fishing.

This year’s winner was 8th grader Joslyn Unger from Valdez. Her piece, titled Clash of Red and Green, also won a first-place spot, along with seven other top placers:

First place

• “Mosey” by Bo Bawtinhimer, kindergartener from Moose Pass
• “Alaska In and Out” by Shoshanah Stewart, 6th grader from Kobuk
• “Clash of Red and Green” by Joslyn Unger, 8th grader from Valdez

Second place

• “Shody” by Westin LaBrake, 2nd grader from Moose Pass
• “Too close to Miss” by Quya Stwart, 4th grader from Kobuk
• “A Net Full of Blessings” by Desarose Stewart, 9th grader from Kobuk

Third place

• Untitled by Matix Holmes, 2nd grader from Ketchikan
• “Wind, Water & Fish” by Isaak Stewart, 7th grader from Kobuk

"It just warms my heart to see these remarkable art pieces showcasing Alaska’s salmon,” commented Alaska Regional Forester Dave Schmid. “I started my career as a fish biologist, and I feel confident in saying these young artists have certainly captured the spirit, persistence and beauty of these amazing fish.”

These state winners will go on to compete nationally. Those award winners will be announced sometime in May.

For more information about the Wildlife Forever Fish Art Contest, visit https://www.wildlifeforever.org/home/fish-art/2023-winners/.