The Topeka Performing Arts Center Young Artists Awards Program was conceived in 1995 to recognize Shawnee County high school juniors who excelled in fine arts. The program celebrates their contributions to the enrichment of their schools and their community, and to encourage students' continued achievements in the arts.
Annually, any Shawnee County area high school junior can be nominated in one of nine awards categories. A panel of judges reviews the nominees' work to choose the best in each category.