Astoria Column Centennial Celebration Announces
Community Poster Contest Winning Design Will Become Official Commemorative
Poster for the 100th Anniversary
ASTORIA, Ore. (April 13th, 2026 )— Friends of Astoria Column and Astoria Visual Arts invite artists of all ages to help celebrate 100 years of the Astoria Column by designing a commemorative poster for the 2026 Centennial Celebration.
The winning design will be professionally printed and distributed to visitors during the celebration, becoming a keepsake honoring one of Oregon’s most iconic landmarks.
The selected artwork will serve as the official commemorative poster for the Astoria Column Centennial and may be featured in promotional materials throughout the anniversary year.
Distinguished judges for the contest:·
• Teri Sund, owner Imogen Gallery
• James Gainey, artist, writer owner of Meet the Artist podcasts
• Gabe Fernandez, renowned painter, Pier 11 Studios
Constructed in 1926 and standing 125 feet above the city on Coxcomb Hill, the Astoria Column has served as a symbol of Astoria and the Pacific Northwest for generations. The Centennial Celebration offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the public to take part in honoring the Column’s history, legacy, and future.
“We love creating professional opportunities for artists, and this contest is a chance for them to explore and interpret Astoria’s iconic history in their own voice”, said Annie Eskelin, Executive Director of Astoria Visual Arts. “It’s also a chance for our community to really come together and celebrate this momentous occasion through creative perspectives. You only turn 100 once!”
Artists are encouraged to interpret the history, beauty, and significance of the Astoria Column in a creative and visually compelling way. Designs should reflect the significance and joy of the Centennial celebration. Submissions may reflect a wide range of styles—from traditional and historical to contemporary and graphic.
Eligible submissions may include original artwork in any medium that can be reproduced as a poster. Entries must be the original work of the artist and may not include copyrighted materials without permission.
Contest Details
· Submission deadline: May 31st, 2026
• Cash prize ($200 for adult division, $100 young adult, $50 student)
• Winner announced: June 7th, 2026
• Open to: Artists aged 5+
• The winning artist will have their work recognized as the official commemorative image for the Astoria Column Centennial.
Complete contest rules, submission guidelines, and entry forms are available at astoriavisualarts.org
The Astoria Column Centennial celebration will feature a yearlong series of events, exhibits, educational programs, and community activities honoring 100 years of the landmark’s place in the region’s history.
On July 18th, from 11:00am to 4:00pm, all locals and visitors welcomed to a downtown celebration with entertainment, live music, cultural exhibits, free food and more.
For more information about the Astoria Column Centennial and the poster contest, visit https://www.astoriacolumn100.org/
astoriavisualarts.org
Media Contact
Liz Kay
805.994.9952
liz@lizkayco.com
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About Astoria Visual Arts
Astoria Visual Arts creates opportunities for people of all ages and walks of life to engage with the arts. Founded in 1989, Astoria Visual Arts is a cornerstone of creative expression and community connection providing dynamic exhibitions, youth-focused initiatives, and support for artists at every stage of their careers. As a member-based organization, we work together to support the arts and the artists in our community.
About the Astoria Column
The Astoria Column is a 125-foot-tall monument located in Astoria, Oregon. Dedicated in 1926, it features a hand-applied sgraffito mural, the only one of its kind in the world, illustrating significant events in Oregon and Pacific Northwest history, from Native American heritage to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Column is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains one of Oregon’s most beloved historic landmarks.