Local teen enters top five of ‘America’s Most Artistic Kid’

Mariposa’s own Titus Wilson is currently in first place in his group in the nationwide “America’s Most Artistic Kid” competition.

Presented by Bob Ross Inc. and Colossal, the contest invites children to submit art for a chance to win $20,000, appear on The Joy of Painting with Nicholas Hankins and showcase work at the Minnetrista Museum.

“It really makes me feel good,” said Wilson.

“I used to not think I’m that great of an artist but now I’m in the top five and it’s made me feel more confident.”

The contest highlights young artists across the country and raises awareness and support for Blood Cancer United (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) and their mission to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families.

Following in his mother’s footsteps, Wilson has been interested in art most of his life.

“It started with a doodle board and chalk,” said Lizzie Dean, Wilson’s mother.

“He would just doodle and erase, over and over.”

Now 13 and a student at Woodland Elementary, Wilson enjoys drawing characters and is working to improve with realism.

“Markers are my favorite thing to use,” Wilson said.

Dean has been a fan of the Bob Ross show, The Joy of Painting (1983–1994), where Ross promoted positivity, mindfulness and the belief that anyone can create art, fostering a calming legacy that continues to encourage creativity.

“I grew up with Bob Ross and I would have it on when I was cooking dinner and things,” Dean said.

“Some of the things Bob Ross would say are things I’d like to influence my kids with.”

When Dean discovered the contest, she encouraged Wilson to enter.

“I thought it was just for showing off art but then I realized there’s a prize,” Wilson explained.

A long with appearing on The Joy of Painting with Nicholas Hankins and a showcase at the Minnetrista Museum, $20,000 is up for grabs.

“I think I would spend some of it and save the rest,” Wilson said.

“I’d like to get a new computer.”

After entering the contest and thinking nothing of it, the family discovered Wilson had advanced to the top 10.

As the contest continued, Wilson received enough votes to advance to the top five.

“I put in my best pieces,” said Wilson.

“I didn’t really think anything of it but now I’m in the finals.”

Wilson’s artwork has received many votes and a great deal of support from the community.

“It’s special to have a child supporting a local cause while gaining confidence and showcasing his ability at the same time,” Dean said.

Besides being an artist, Wilson is a typical teenager who enjoys video games and anime.

“My favorite game is probably Roblox and my favorite anime is One Piece,” Wilson said.

The teen is also a talented skateboarder who is looking forward to going to Mariposa County High School next year.

“I like to run and I’m also in band,” he said.

“I play the trumpet.”

Voting in the top five category ends March 26 with the winners being announced in May.

For more information about the contest and to vote for Wilson, visit https:// artistickid.org/2026/titus-e0a6

“It’d be really cool to win,” Wilson said.