Honoring the Next Generation of Student Creators

Five Towns College’s Long Island Media Arts Show (LIMAS) returns this spring.

High school visionaries…it’s your time to shine!

On Friday, March 27, 2026, Five Towns College will once again transform its Dix Hills, NY campus into a hub of imagination, storytelling, and artistic energy as it hosts its annual Long Island Media Arts Show (LIMAS).

This one-of-a-kind event encourages high school students from across Long Island to submit original work in the following categories: film, animation, photography, digital art, and game design.

There aren’t many opportunities for teens to showcase their art, and have it reviewed by industry professionals. That’s one of the many reasons why this event is so unique and special.

“The Long Island Media Arts Show (LIMAS) has become so much more than an exhibition,” says Sharon Ryba-Pertz, Director of LIMAS 2026 and Chair of the Interactive Media Arts Division at Five Towns College. “Now it’s a full conference experience, with keynote speakers, workshops, portfolio reviews, screenings, and interactive opportunities.”

Beyond the competition itself, LIMAS provides students with early guidance as they explore college options and future careers in the arts. It’s a celebration of student vision, artistic growth, and the future of storytelling.

Awards, recognition, and scholarships

Each student submission is reviewed by a panel of jurors made up of industry professionals, along with high school and college faculty. Every participating student receives written feedback on their submission.

Award nominees are selected using established criteria, and winners are chosen with input from Five Towns College Film/TV and Interactive Media Arts faculty—along with senior-level Five Towns College students.

This opportunity provides senior-level students with valuable professional experience in analyzing work and delivering thoughtful critiques.

Excitingly, the teen award winners will be honored in-person at LIMAS, and receive scholarships from Five Towns College.

A Motivating Morning of Events

Beginning at 8:00 a.m. and concluding at 1:30 p.m., LIMAS 2026 will feature numerous programs that high schoolers won’t want to miss!

“The day consists of many different workshops such as camera operations, photography, and other hands-on activities,” says Ryba-Pertz.

Additionally, students will have the chance to attend session blocks, view exhibitions, watch screenings, and engage directly with industry professionals.

Student films and animations will be screened in the Five Towns College Performing Arts Center, while photography and 2D digital artwork will be showcased throughout the Five Towns College Gallery.

Many high schools attend LIMAS as a field trip. Students arrive by bus for a day of inspiration; supporting their classmates who are nominated.

Portfolio reviews

LIMAS 2026 will also include on-site portfolio review sessions for students planning to apply to college art and media programs.

Open to all students–not just those who entered the competition–these reviews help students gain confidence when speaking about their work, strengthen their presentation and communication skills, and learn how to make their portfolio stand out.

Augmented reality and student games

In an exciting addition to the main categories, LIMAS 2026 will now accept 3D models, which will be displayed through augmented reality.

“When students scan a QR code and point their camera at the display, the model appears in augmented space,” explains Ryba-Pertz. “Students will be able to walk around a floating 3D model right in the gallery.”

LIMAS is also expanding further into interactive media.

“New this year, we’ve added student game submissions and a game room,” shares Ryba-Pertz. “Students can play each other’s games and showcase their work in a fun, collaborative environment.”

Keynote speaker

A major highlight of LIMAS 2026 will be a keynote address from Romeo Tirone, ASC, an Emmy-nominated cinematographer and director who has worked on acclaimed TV series such as Dexter, True Blood, Once Upon a Time, and Manifest.

Tirone will share insights from decades of experience in visual storytelling, encouraging students to develop originality, craft, and curiosity as they navigate the fast-evolving media landscape.

Consider Five Towns College for higher ed

The Long Island Media Arts Show reflects Five Towns College’s expanding role as a creative and academic leader right here on Long Island.

“Five Towns is a small and strong school that’s been growing a lot,” says Ryba-Pertz. “We want students to see the depths of what our little school can do. We do a lot for a little school—we even offer an Interactive Media Arts major.”

Campus tours will be available during the conference, giving high school students a first-hand look at residence halls, studios, performance spaces, and innovative labs.

“Five Towns really is a hidden gem,” says Ryba-Pertz. “This event is a chance for students to experience future careers, connect with like-minded peers, and discover what’s possible…all close to home, in their own backyard.”

She adds: “I hope students leave LIMAS 2026 feeling inspired; even if they’re just here to support their classmates. There are so many sessions that there’s truly something for everyone.”

“A high school student may see a friend’s work on display and think, ‘Next year, I want to submit too.’ That’s meaningful. We want this conference to feel welcoming—where students feel motivated to create more.”

For the full LIMAS schedule, visit ftcmediaarts.com.