This program invests in South Dakota artists whose work reflects our people, our land, our history, and our spirit. 

Each selected piece becomes part of the state’s permanent collection, on display in the State Capitol Building in Pierre and nearby state-owned buildings. 

There are currently 135 pieces in the collection, enjoyed by visitors, state employees, and citizens of South Dakota. 

This program, established in 2008, is proudly supported by the South Dakota Arts Council and Travel South Dakota.
Purchase proposals are accepted on an annual basis.

Students in grades K-12 are invited to submit one piece of artwork in November.  
A jury of professional South Dakota artists serve as judges for the competition. 
Top-ranked pieces from each division are selected for the annual Governor’s Student Art Exhibition which is on display at the State Capitol Building in Pierre through October. 
Submissions are divided among categories determined by grade level:
- Kindergarten-Grade 2
- Grade 3-5
- Grade 6-8
- Grade 9-12