The Stamford Art Association held the opening reception for its 40th Annual High School Scholarship Show this weekend. Every year, the association features the artwork of students from Fairfield County high schools, and presents awards for the best pieces.

Christine Irvin, Co-President of the Stamford Art Association, says the high schools’ art teachers choose their best students for the show. The Art Association brings in a professional juror to judge the show and award students in five categories.

Congressman Jim Himes attended the reception to present the awards to the students, including five Stamford students.

Irvin says the Stamford Art Association has given over $170,000 in award money to students since the show first started.