INDIANA– The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced the winners of its latest design contest, showcasing the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes that will grace the next generation of durable license cards starting in 2026.
Following an overwhelming response to last year’s art and photo contest—which saw nearly 450 entries from across the state—officials decided to dip back into the pool of high-quality submissions for a second round of selections. After a rigorous staff voting process, six new designs were chosen to represent Indiana’s natural beauty.
2026 Winning Artists and Photographers
The selected images range from intricate illustrations to vivid wildlife photography. The DNR extends its congratulations to the following winners:
- Lesley Nelson: Featured for her detailed fish art.
- Mark Luecke: Captured a striking wild turkey photo.
- Christopher Whalen: Selected for an intimate frog photo.
- Christi Bennett: Recognized for her graceful deer photo.
- Kathleen Gregory: Honored for her atmospheric shot of sunlight through trees.
- Sara Day: Featured for her vibrant duck photo.
The durable license card program was designed for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a sturdier alternative to traditional paper licenses. These credit-card-style passes are built to withstand the elements, from rainy mornings on the lake to treks through dense forest.
“The incredible volume of submissions allowed us to see just how much Hoosiers value our natural resources,” the DNR noted. “Holding a second round of voting ensured that even more of these amazing images could be shared with the public.”
The new 2026 designs will be available for purchase as an add-on when hunters and anglers renew their licenses for the 2026 season.
