Convenience Big Store: Grand champion student artwork sells for record $525K

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March 15, 2026

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Joshua Washington showcases his artwork after being named Grand Champion at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Auction at NRG Center in Houston on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Pasadena ISD student artwork sells for record-breaking $525K at Houston rodeo

Joshua Washington set a record Sunday when his grand champion artwork sold at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's Student Art Auction.

The piece fetched $525,000, nearly doubling the previous record of $276,000 set last year.

"I'm speechless … it just felt like the most surreal experience of my life," said Washington, a Pasadena Memorial High School senior. "I'm just very grateful."

Art from 90 students across the Houston area was auctioned at the annual event, with proceeds going to educational programs and student scholarships.

Claire Partain has more on the auction.

Matt Wyatt, Audience Producer

matt.wyatt@houstonchronicle.com

🎤 On the big stage

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Photo by: Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo

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Photo by: Damian Dovarganes, Associated Press

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Photo by: Courtesy Of OnScene TV

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📅 The calendar

Tonight: Pepe Aguilar // Go Tejano Day
March 16: Cross Canadian Ragweed
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March 18: Koe Wetzel // Family Wednesday
March 19: Lainey Wilson

🔧 News you can use

Notice: You're receiving this update as part of our special coverage of the rodeo and its impact on Houston's food, music and arts culture. Find the rest of our coverage of RodeoHouston at Houstonchronicle.com