County Line - Winter 2026

I Love My KY County KACo Art Contest winners

2026-03-05 06:30:00

First Place Winner

Kylee Crowe

Estill County | E still County Middle School | Grade 6

“In my drawing, a ba rn with a quilt square from the Estill County Quilt Square Trail stands as a symbol of my Appalachian roots. These quilt patterns represent the strong women who raised me, the farms and back roads that shaped me, and the dear heritage I carry forward. I love my county because it is more than just where I live, it is who I am.”

Second Place Winner

Avery Long

Boyle County | John W. Bate Middle School | Grade 7

“I chose this image because I love driving through the countryside and seeing all of the b eautiful animals and cows grazing peacefully in the fields. I also love seeing the happy farm families in the peaceful countryside. These always make me smile each time I dr ive by.”

Third Place Winner

Porter Branscum

Russell County | Russell County Middle School | Grade 8

“I love Russell County because of its natural beauty, where rugged landscapes like Rockhouse Bottom, Lake Cumberland and peaceful forests come together to create breathtaking views like the one in my painting. It reminds me daily of the history, strength, and serenity found right here at home.”

KACo asked students in grades kindergarten through 8 to depict what they love about their county, and this year we received more than 600 entries from across the state. There were so many outstanding pieces of art showing the myriad ways children view their communities and county government. Thank you to all the talented young artists who participated!

“I think Kylee Crowe said it best: ‘I love my county because it is more than just where I live, it is who I am.’ Estill County is our home where everyone plays a vital part in shaping our legacy. I want to thank Kylee for being one of thos e individuals. I’m very proud of her. We’ve had two art contest winners in recent years. We’ve got a lot of talent here, and I’m thankful for that.” –Estill County Judge/Executive Donnie Watson

“I am so happy that Boyle County has a winner! Avery’s artwork depicts an actual scene while driving the back roads in Boyle County. I love art and appreciate the beautiful colors she chose for the sun, grass and cow. Animals are hard to draw for me, but Avery’s cow is sp ot-on perfect. You can tell that she really studies the sub ject of her a rt. I’m super excited to see an up-and-coming artist as talented as Avery. We are certainly Boyle County proud!” – Boyle County Judge/Executive Trille Bottom

“As county judge/executive, it is truly an honor to have a top three winner representing Russell County in this year’s KACo art competition. When a student chooses to draw what they love most about their home, it speaks volumes — not just about their artistic talent but about the pride they carry for our community. In today’s fast-paced society, it’s especially meaningful to see our county reflected in the eyes of our young people, and this artwork by Miss Porter Branscum captured that spirit beautifully.” – Russell County Judge/Executive Randy Marcum