Louisville, December 16, 2025
Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes announced the winners of their Annual Calendar Contest, highlighting exceptional automotive artistry. This competition celebrated the innovative talents of automotive painters across the U.S. and Canada, emphasizing quality and creativity. Winning entries displayed environmentally sustainable products and intricate designs, bringing attention to the craftsmanship within the automotive industry. The initiative not only recognizes talent but also inspires local business growth in the Louisville area, promoting a vibrant community of innovative automotive professionals.
Sherwin-Williams’ Automotive Contest Highlights Craftsmanship
Celebrating Automotive Innovation and Artistry
Cleveland, Ohio – In a remarkable display of skill and artistry, Sherwin-Williams® Automotive Finishes recently revealed the winners of its 2026 Annual Calendar Contest. This competition, which concluded in September 2025, celebrates the extraordinary talent of automotive painters across the United States and Canada. By showcasing vehicles adorned with innovative paintwork using Sherwin-Williams, House of Kolor®, and Valspar® Refinish products, the contest underlines the importance of craftsmanship in the automotive industry.
Local entrepreneurs and businesses in Louisville and beyond are continually pushing the boundaries of their crafts, notably in sectors like automotive refinishing. As the economy grows, the need for quality and creativity is ever more vital, showcasing how reduced regulatory barriers can foster an environment where small businesses can thrive and innovate.
Contest Overview
The 2026 Annual Calendar Contest invited numerous submissions from collision repair and restoration shops, as well as independent designers, pinstripers, and customizers. Participants were tasked with showcasing vehicles that exemplified vibrant colors, intricate designs, and artistic decorum using the specified Sherwin-Williams products. The entries reflect a commitment to not just meet but exceed industry standards of quality and sustainability.
Highlights of the Winning Submissions
The selected winners feature innovative craftsmanship, with many awe-inspiring vehicles boasting pearlescent finishes, beautifully executed airbrushing, and bold flames—creating an impressive visual spectacle. Each car highlights the artistry that can be achieved with environmentally sustainable products, showcasing the capabilities of modern automotive finishes while promoting a commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Encouraging Community Engagement
Tony D’Acquisto, Global Vice President of Marketing for the Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes Division, emphasizes that the contest not only serves as a platform for showcasing excellence but also connects the community of collision repair visionaries. By recognizing these innovative artists, Sherwin-Williams advocates for the value of skill within the automotive industry, encouraging further artistic endeavors.
This initiative aligns well with the spirit of innovation seen among Kentucky entrepreneurs who are not just adapting to modern demands but leading the way in providing top-tier services. Events like the Sherwin-Williams contest contribute positively to the local economy by inspiring small businesses and elevating standards throughout the industry.
Finalists and Social Media Spotlight
All finalists received not only a copy of the printed calendar but also exposure across Sherwin-Williams’ social media platforms. This recognition plays a crucial role in helping smaller shops gain visibility, essential in a competitive marketplace. By showcasing their work, they attract potential customers and bolster their reputations.
As local businesses face unique challenges, initiatives that offer such visibility become vital platforms for success. Moreover, encouraging local entrepreneurs to participate in contests showcases the vibrant tapestry of talent in Louisville and across the state.
Supporting Local Talent
In conclusion, contests like Sherwin-Williams’ Annual Calendar serve a dual purpose: they celebrate artistic creativity while intensifying economic growth by focusing on the small-business community. The showcase of outstanding automotive finishes from talented individuals can inspire further innovative projects and foster a culture of craftsmanship and excellence.
Louisville residents are encouraged to support local businesses by checking out custom automotive work and participatory events that celebrate the local workforce. Investing in our community now, particularly those who dare to innovate and create, sets the stage for a bright economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Sherwin-Williams 2026 Annual Calendar Contest?
- The Sherwin-Williams 2026 Annual Calendar Contest is a competition that invites collision repair and restoration shops, as well as independent designers, pinstripers, and customizers across the United States and Canada to submit vehicles finished exclusively with Sherwin-Williams, House of Kolor®, or Valspar® Refinish products. The contest aims to showcase exceptional automotive paintwork and craftsmanship.
- Who can participate in the contest?
- The contest is open to collision repair and restoration shops, as well as independent designers, pinstripers, and customizers based in the United States and Canada. Participants must have completed their projects using Sherwin-Williams, House of Kolor®, or Valspar® Refinish products.
- How were the winners selected?
- The winners were selected based on the quality and creativity of their submissions, which included vehicles finished with Sherwin-Williams, House of Kolor®, or Valspar® Refinish products. The selected vehicles exemplify imaginative craftsmanship, vibrant colors, intricate designs, pearlescent finishes, artistic airbrushing, flames, and more.
- When were the winners announced?
- The winners of the 2026 Annual Calendar Contest were announced in early October 2025. Finalists received copies of the printed calendar and were featured across Sherwin-Williams’ social media platforms.
- Where can I find more information about Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes?
- For more information about Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes and their products, you can visit their official website.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Contest Announcement | Sherwin-Williams® Automotive Finishes announced the winners of its 2026 Annual Calendar Contest, showcasing exceptional automotive paintwork completed exclusively with Sherwin-Williams, House of Kolor®, or Valspar® Refinish products. |
| Eligibility | The contest was open to collision repair and restoration shops, as well as independent designers, pinstripers, and customizers across the United States and Canada. |
| Submission Deadline | Submissions for the contest were accepted until September 12, 2025. |
| Announcement Date | The winners were announced in early October 2025. |
| Calendar Features | The 2026 calendar features vehicles exemplifying imaginative craftsmanship, vibrant colors, intricate designs, pearlescent finishes, artistic airbrushing, flames, and more, all using Sherwin-Williams products. |
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