WILLIAMSBURG – The Williamsburg Area Transit Authority and CultureFix unveiled the first winner of the 2026 Bus Art Contest this past Saturday at James City County’s Family Day Festival.
The WATA, CultureFix Launch Bus Art Contest was announced in January, receiving artwork from Jan. 23 to March 4. The contest was open to all residents of James City County, the City of Williamsburg, or York County. For this year’s theme, “Spirit of 1776,” WATA decided to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American Independence and Virginia’s role in the American Revolution.
The first winning design was selected from the Aspiring (Under 18) category. The winner, Ryder Argo, a fifth-grade student at Clara Byrd Elementary School, created a piece titled “The Traveling Spirit of 1776.”
During the event, Ryder shared the inspiration behind his artwork:
“This artwork shows the Spirit of 1776, which is about America’s fight for freedom. The background represents the American flag and our country. The Liberty Bell stands for freedom and independence. The eagle represents strength and courage. The ship reminds us of early American settlement. The Declaration of Independence shows the ideas of freedom and rights for all people. The cannons represent the battles and sacrifices made during the war. All together, these symbols show bravery, teamwork, and the birth of the United States of America.”
Ryder’s artwork will be displayed on a WATA bus throughout the summer, allowing riders, tourists, and community members across the Historic Triangle to experience his design.
WATA will announce the winners in the Amateur and Professional categories in the coming weeks.
