Gulf Shores-based artist Michael Swiger has been selected as the winner of the 52nd Annual National Shrimp Festival poster contest, festival organizers announced Monday.

Swiger, 31, who co-owns Swiger Studio on Gulf Shores Parkway with his brother John-David, secured the majority vote from the festival committee in a secret ballot held on April 15. His winning design, created with acrylic and watercolor mediums, features iconic festival elements including food, art, and music, alongside coastal imagery of crashing waves, seagulls, and dancing octopi, complemented by camellia flowers and an outline of Alabama.

"I can remember first entering when I was around eight years old," Swiger said after being surprised with news of his win by Festival Co-Chairs Rob and Ginny Barnas. Despite nearly skipping this year's contest, Swiger had a change of heart after receiving encouragement. "When looking back at my past entries, I really feel like I gave it my all this year," he added.

The contest, which opened in January, attracted 26 entries from artists across eight states, including Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Indiana, New Jersey, New York, and Wisconsin.

As the contest winner, Swiger will receive a $1,000 cash prize and see his artwork featured prominently in the festival's marketing and merchandise. He will also make a personal appearance at the event for a poster signing, with details to be announced.

Collectors will have their first opportunity to purchase posters when they become available at 10 a.m. on October 9, the festival's opening day. Pre-signed copies, individually numbered up to 100 and bearing Swiger's signature, are expected to be particularly sought after by collectors. The artwork will also appear on official festival T-shirts and other merchandise.

Swiger is no newcomer to the competition, having placed in the top three several times over the years. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida, and frequently collaborates with his brother on murals for local businesses, restaurants, and attractions throughout Coastal Alabama.

The Annual National Shrimp Festival, organized by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, will celebrate its 52nd year from October 9 through 12, 2025, in Gulf Shores. Often described as "Alabama's original beach party," the four-day event features food, art, live music, and is coordinated by a team of nearly 100 volunteers who work year-round to plan the festival.

Additional information about festival activities, vendors, and the music lineup will be announced on the official website, National Shrimp Festival, in the coming months.