Yuma Art Symposium

47th Annual Yuma Art Symposium, February 19–21, 2026

Every February, Historic Downtown Yuma becomes a little more electric, filled with new ideas, fresh techniques, and the kind of creative energy that stays with you long after the weekend ends.

The 47th Annual Yuma Art Symposium returns February 19-21, 2026, centered at the Yuma Art Center with events and experiences happening throughout the historic North End. For three days, Yuma welcomes both internationally recognized and emerging artists for a total-immersion celebration of art through demonstrations, lectures and slide presentations, along with exhibitions, special events and community nights that are open to everyone.

What Is the Yuma Art Symposium?

The Yuma Art Symposium (YAS) is:

  • A national influx of new inspiration for Yuma artists and art lovers
  • One of the most unique arts education forums in the country
  • A three-day immersion in exhibitions, events, demonstrations, and presentations led by both nationally and internationally recognized artists and rising talent

This year’s presenters span multiple disciplines, including: metal, clay, photography, printmaking, painting, wood, and fiber.

For full details, presenter links, registration fees, and updates, visit: YumaArtSymposium.org

Dates, Locations & At-A-Glance Info

Dates: February 19–21, 2026
Primary Venue: Yuma Art Center (Historic Yuma Theatre + Galleries)
Additional Locations: Sites throughout the historic North End (including Main Street)

Registration: Required to attend presentations on February 20–21
Public Events: Several events are free and open to the public (details below)

Pin Swap: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, February 19, 2026
The symposium begins with a Downtown Yuma tradition: an afternoon of registration, community connection, and the iconic pin swap at Lute’s Casino, 221 S. Main Street. After registration, attendees will head to the Yuma Art Center for informal presenter introductions.

Free & Public Events

Even if you’re not registered for the full symposium, YAS includes experiences that welcome the entire community.

Pre-Symposium at Arizona Western College (Free)

Thursday, February 19
Arizona Western College: Art Building, Room 103
Four symposium presenters selected by AWC art faculty will share their work with faculty, students and the public.

Exhibitions + Student Show + Auction (Open to the Public)

Friday, February 20
In partnership with the Yuma Art Center, YAS hosts a major evening featuring:

  • Opening reception for the Presenter Exhibition
  • A one-night Student Exhibition
  • The Small Works Silent Auction Fundraiser (a highlight of Friday night)

This Friday night reception draws several hundred attendees and offers a rare chance to meet presenters, see the work up close, and be part of one of Downtown Yuma’s most creative nights of the year.

Signature Symposium Experiences: Pin Swap

For more than 45 years, participants have created and traded pins, usually in their preferred
media, ranging from playful to museum-worthy. The best selection is typically available during Thursday registration, but pins are traded and sold throughout the symposium.

Presenter Exhibition (Open to the Public)

Hosted by the City of Yuma at the Yuma Art Center Galleries, this exhibition features artwork from symposium presenters and is open to the public during its run. The opening night reception takes place Friday evening and runs concurrently with symposium activities.

Small Works Silent Auction Fundraiser

One of the most anticipated parts of the weekend, the Small Works Auction invites symposium attendees and artists from around the country to donate small works of art for a silent auction held during Friday night’s exhibition opening.

All proceeds benefit the Yuma Art Symposium

More Symposium Highlights

Throughout the weekend, attendees can also experience:

  • Exhibits of artworks by presenters
  • A student show
  • National Saw, File, & Solder Sprints
  • Demonstrations, lectures, and slide presentations

Plan Your Symposium Weekend

Whether you’re an artist looking for fresh techniques, a collector seeking contemporary work, or someone who simply loves the creative pulse of Downtown Yuma, the Yuma Art Symposium offers three days of learning, connection, and inspiration, right in the heart of the historic North End.

For registration, presenter details, fees, and artist links, visit YumaArtSymposium.org