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The Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 arts scholarships, offering graduating high school seniors financial support and opportunities to pursue careers in the arts.
The program supports students studying visual arts, performing arts and related fields, helping them focus on their creative development. Past recipient Tesla Kawakami credits the scholarship with shaping her path as an artist.
A 2018 graduate of Edmonds-Woodway High School, Kawakami earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Western Washington University with the help of a renewable scholarship from the foundation.
“Scholarships enabled me to focus on my art. I did not have to take a job outside of campus, which greatly contributed to my success,” Kawakami said.
Kawakami also received an award from the Sambataro family, which she said strengthened her confidence as an emerging artist.
“Receiving that award gave me the confidence to move forward as an artist because someone believed in me enough to extend that special honor,” she said.
Kawakami’s connection to the Edmonds Arts Festival began in grade school when her work was featured in the festival’s Student Art Gallery. As a scholarship recipient, she later exhibited in the Juried Art Gallery.
Today, Kawakami works full time with the Office of Arts & Culture Seattle while continuing to create and exhibit her work. She collaborates with artists connected to the Seattle Art Museum and has exhibited in Spokane with upcoming shows in Seattle galleries. Her work is currently featured in exhibits near the Seattle ferry terminal.
Foundation officials say her journey demonstrates how investing in arts education can lead to sustainable career opportunities.
Applications for the 2026 scholarships are open now. Deadline is April 10.
More information and application materials are available at www.edmondsartsfestival.com/art-student-scholarships.
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