Creating Space for Columbus Art and Artists

The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority’s commitment to the arts is woven throughout its venues, from more than 400 works by Central Ohio artists to one of Columbus’ most beloved public art installations, As We Are. The interactive digital sculpture, created by artist Matthew Mohr and housed in the North Atrium of the Greater Columbus Convention Center, has become an iconic welcome for visitors from around the world. Following Mohr’s passing in April 2025, a portrait of him was commissioned by the FCCFA and recently dedicated to honor Mohr and his contribution to Columbus. The portrait now hangs at the Hilton Columbus Downtown, creating a lasting tribute to him.

While the FCCFA’s art collection represents a range of styles, the FCCFA’s commitment to public art extends beyond those works, including creating opportunities to recognize local artists, share their stories and invite community members to contribute their own creative perspectives on Columbus. One way the FCCFA is supporting new forms of creative expression is through community arts opportunities.

Earlier this year, the UnConventional Film Contest invited filmmakers to tell original Columbus stories inspired by the people, places and experiences that give the city its character. Winners of that contest were announced September 9, 2026 at an awards reception. Dominic Le’s A Slice of Asian American in Columbus and Candy Chang and James Reeves’ The Nightly News tied for first place, each receiving a $5,000 award. Claudia G. Tieku received third place for What’s Your Stop?, while films by Gabby Huffman, Lee Sambas and Em Yue earned honorable mentions.

That invitation to see Columbus from a personal point of view continues through the yes, Columbus Photography Contest, presented by the FCCFA with support from Experience Columbus. Amateur and professional photographers may submit images capturing the spirit of Columbus—from familiar landmarks to neighborhood moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. The contest offers $10,000 in prizes and encourages the public to help select the winning photographs through online voting.

Submissions will be accepted through Oct. 15 at 11:59 p.m.

The FCCFA’s art collection and its film and photography contests reflect a broad approach to supporting the arts—one that celebrates established works while creating room for new voices, new perspectives and new ways of seeing Columbus.

For more information on FCCFA’s public art collection, click here: Our Art

To learn more about how to enter the yes, Columbus photo contest, click here: yes, Columbus Photo Contest