fine art contests - archdiocese of st. louisarchstl.org/files/field-file/contest booklet...
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Fine Art Contests
2017 - 2018
2017- 2018 FINE ART CONTESTS
The following is a list of annual contest that have been researched and are believed
to be organized for the 2017-2018 academic year. The publication is first organized
by discipline (Music, Art, Theater/Video and General Arts) and then by the month
each contest has annually occurred.
At this time, many of the contests listed have not posted their 2016-2017 information,
but the web links listed should help you find the information as the date of the contest
nears. Please be aware that some contest deadlines are on the first day of the month
in which they are listed.
If you find that a contest that has been canceled, or if you find other contests that
happen annually, please contact me to update this publication.
Thank you,
Kenneth Lederle
Director of Fine Arts
314-792-7324
MUSIC
AUGUST What: Claude T. Smith Memorial Band Composition Contest Who: age 26 or younger When: Held every three years (2019, 2022, 2025 etc.) Website: http://www.phibetamulambda.org/phibetamulambda/Claude_T._Smith.html
The Lambda Chapter of Phi Beta Mu established a band composition contest in 1982 under the leadership of prominent band composer Claude T. Smith, a member of the Lambda Chapter. The original intent of this contest was to encourage young composers of band music. Compositions must be original and unpublished and should be of grade III-IV difficulty. What: Young New Yorkers’ Chorus Young Composers Competition Who: anyone under the age of 35 Website: http://ynyc.org/
Compositions should be written for choir alone or for choir and an accompanying instrument(s). Previous entrants not chosen as finalist are encouraged to re-apply. Three competition finalist will be selected and the New Yorkers’ Chorus will commission a new work from each finalist and premiere the pieces. Commissioned pieces may be written for a cappella or accompanied mixed-voice choir. First place winner will receive $1,000 prize. The other two finalist will each receive $500.
SEPTEMBER What: International Songwriting Competition (ISC) Who: 18 years or younger Website: http://songwritingcompetition.com/
The ISC is an annual songwriting and music contest whose mission is to provide the opportunity for both aspiring and established songwriters to have their songs heard in a professional arena. It is designed to nurture the musical talent of songwriters on all levels, and promote excellence in the art of songwriting.
OCTOBER What: Jazz Education Network Student Composition Showcase Who: Students ages 14-17 and 18+ Fee: $25. Membership in JEN is required. Website: https://jazzednet.org/compshowcase
The JEN student Composition Showcase, designed to spotlight young jazz composers, gives students an opportunity to have an original composition recognized and performed at the International level. All entrants will receive written comments from the professional reviewers. A total of 4-6 student compositions will be chosen for performance at the JEN Student Composition Showcase Presentation during the annual conference, with the composers being invited to attend the conference and hear a professional performance of their music. For this event, Alfred Music Publishing will supply appropriate templates in Finale or Sibelius as needed, and may consider any of these compositions for publication, and as such, will contact the composer directly in that regard. Current membership in JEN is required to complete the application process. What: MMEA Electronic Music Composition Contest Who: Grades 7-12 Website: http://www.sekelsky.com/MMEA-electronic/index.html Contact: MMEA Technology Chair Michael Sekelsky – [email protected]
Sponsored by the Missouri Music Educators Association, the Electronic Music Composition Contest recognizes outstanding compositions and is held to highlight the effectiveness of music technology in the school curriculum. Entries will be judged based on their aesthetic quality, use of electronic media, and the power of the composition and its presentation in communicating the excitement and effectiveness of electronic music composition in the school curriculum. No entry fee required and compositions can be no longer than five minutes. What: Young Composers Competition sponsored by Arden and Harry Fisher Who: Ages 12-16 and 17-21 Website: http://www.webster.edu/community-music-school/programs/young-
composers-competition.html Fee: $20 Contact: [email protected] or 314-968-5939 for more information Deadline: October 23, 2015
This program, unique to the St. Louis region, is open to nationwide participation and has recognized young composers from St. Louis to both sides of the continent. Awardees have their works performed by professional musicians in a public concert that is professionally recorded. Awardees receive a CD of the performance and a written critique and personal conference with guest composer Don Freund.
What: GRAMMY Camp: Jazz Session Who: Grades 9-12, trumpet, bass trombone, baritone saxophone, bass (upright and electric), guitar, piano, drum set and voice Fee: $10 Website:http://www.grammyintheschools.com/programs/grammy-camp-jazz-
session/auditions Deadline: October 22, 2015
The GRAMMY® Camp: Jazz Session offers students the opportunity to audition for the choir, band and combo and receive a free trip to the host city of the GRAMMYs. Selectees are also eligible for more than $2 million in scholarships from College Partners and to perform in GRAMMY® Week events, record a CD and attend the GRAMMYs. . What: Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award Who: ages 8-18 Website: http://www.fromthetop.org/information/apply/scholarship-opportunity-jack-
kent-cooke-young-artist-award/
Available to approximately 20 young musicians (ages 8-18) who need funds for a new instrument, private lessons, or summer music camp tuition, this scholarship is a great opportunity that includes up to $10,00 in financial support, performance on NPR’s From the Top, as well as arts leadership mentoring! What: University of Missouri – St. Louis Annual Junior Concerto Competition Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://music.umsl.edu/Concerto%20Competition/index.html
Winner will perform as soloists with University of Missouri - St. Louis Orchestra or Band during the Spring Semester. Students must choose one movement of a solo selection with orchestra or band accompaniment of approximately 10-20 minutes in length. Performance must be performed from memory and with piano accompaniment. The application and preliminary video must be submitted online (YouTube or Drop Box) or mailed (Concerto Competition Committee, UMSL, Department of Music, One University Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63121.
NOVEMBER What: Marine Band Concerto Competition Who: Grades 9-12, woodwind, brass, or percussion Website: http://www.marineband.marines.mil/About/ConcertoCompetition.aspx Deadline: November 16, 2015
“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, in conjunction with the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation), is pleased to announce its annual concerto competition for high school musicians. The winner will appear as a guest soloist with the U.S. Marine Band and receive a $2,500 cash prize from the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. .
DECEMBER What: Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition Who: highly proficient jazz or classical saxophonists or clarinetists ages 18-23 Website: http://veacompetition.com Deadline: December 9, 2015
Each contestant will submit an audition recording featuring pieces from the required repertoire. The winners will perform at the Vandoren VEA concert in Indianapolis at the Music for All convention in March 2016 and visit Paris in 2016 to meet representatives from Vandoren and participate in a number of activities. What: School Band and Orchestra Magazine Essay Contest Who: Grades 4-8 and 9-12 Website: http://sbomagazine.com/essay-contest.html
Write a 250 word (or less) essay for a chance to win one of ten $1,000 scholarships awarded in two categories; Five $1,000 scholarships in grades four to eight and five $1,000 scholarships in grades nine through twelve.
JANUARY What: University of Missouri Creating Original Music Project (COMP) Who: Grades K-12 Website: https://music.missouri.edu/mnmi/comp
The COMP, the Competition’s purpose is to encourage K-12 students in Missouri to write original musical works and have their music performed. Winning compositions will be performed at the Creating Original Music Program's music festival in April at the University of Missouri, and cash prizes will be awarded.
What: St. Louis Symphony “Express the Music” Essay Contest Who: Grades 6-12 Website: http://www.stlsymphony.org/express Contact: To enter, call 314-286-4190 or email [email protected].
This educational activity invites students to listen to a specific selection of symphonic music and express their thoughts and emotions through creative writing. What: American Composers Forum Composition Award Who: Grades 9-12 Website: www.nextnotes.org
The American Composers Forum NextNotes High School Composition Awards are open to all high school students. All composers of voice, electronics, and instruments writing in all styles can apply. All applicants will receive a free one-year American Composers Forum student membership. Winners receive scholarships, workshops and performances of their compositions.
FEBRUARY What: Northwinds Symphonic Band Young Artists Solo Competition Who: Instrumental musicians (woodwind, brass, percussion) ages 15-18 Website: http://www.nwsband.org/
The winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship and perform with the NorthWinds Symphonic Band during their annual spring concert in the Kansas City area. Receiving the award is conditional upon the winner being available and committed to participating in dress rehearsal dates and the performance date. Applicants are encouraged to select from works found on the NorthWinds Symphonic Band Young Artists Solo Competition Music Repertoire List and must submit an audio recording of their performance on the chosen selection(s). All submissions must include piano, band, orchestral, or SmartMusic accompaniment. What: VSA International Young Soloist Competition Who: ages 14-25, with a disability Website: www.kennedy-center.org/IYS
The competition is open to soloist as well as ensembles of up to five members. All genres of usic are accepted, including but not limited to classical, jazz, hip-hop, rot/alt. indie, bluegrass, folk, country and world.
MARCH What: Unsigned Only Songwriting Contest Who: ages 18 or less Fee: $35 per song submitted Website: www.unsignedonly.com
Unsigned Only is a unique music competition designed for solo artists, bands, and singers not signed to a major label record company. The goal of Unsigned Only is to find an outstanding, talented performer: a band, singer, or solo artist...a newcomer or veteran...raw or polished - the “gem” that needs to be discovered. Unsigned Only is looking for the total package. Students 18 or younger can enter the “Unisigned Only” music contest’s teen category for a chance to win the Grand Prize of $10,000 in cash (plus additional prizes), one-on-one mentoring by an elite group of record company executives, and a scholarship to Berklee School of Music’s summer program. First Place and Second Place winners will also be selected in each category. What: Great American Songbook High School Vocal Academy and Competition Who: grades 9-12 Fee: $80 Website: www.TheSongbook.org
High school students who are U.S. residents and live in the fifty continental United States are invited to submit video links to performances of two contrasting songs from the Great American Songbook genre (see FAQs for Great American Songbook resources). Audition submissions are evaluated by a panel of music educators and industry professionals, who will provide written feedback to every applicant. Approximately forty students will be invited to attend the Songbook Academy week in Carmel, IN, where they will be mentored and further evaluated What: Notre Dame Children’s Choir Hymn Competition Who: all ages Website: http://sma.nd.edu/special-programs/hymn-competition/
The hymn competition asks composers to compose a new hymn with original text and original music. The text and tune will address the theme for the competition. The hymn must be for congregational use but is to be led by children’s voices with organ accompaniment. The winner will receive $600 and have the hymn sung by the Notre Dame Children’s Choir. What: Kaufman Music Center International Youth Piano Competition Who: students age 7-18 Website: http://www.kaufmanmusiccenter.org/kc/about/youth-piano-competition/
The competition will award cash prizes and give winners the opportunity to perform in a Winners showcase Concert in New York’s prestigious Merkin Concert Hall. Applications include a 300 word biography, and a letter of recommendation.
What: Stars of Tomorrow Concerto Competition Who: students age 10-22 Website: http://www.bellevillephilpharmonic.org/competitions.html
The Philharmonic Society of Belleville presents the Stars of Tomorrow Concerto Competition. The competition is open to al music students in elementary school through college. The winners perform with the Belleville Philharmonic Orchestra during a fall subscription series concert.
APRIL What: NAfME Electronic Music Composition Contest Who: K-8, 9-12, and Collegiate Fee: $20 Website: http://www.nafme.org/programs/contests-calls-competitions/nafme-electronic-
music-composition-contest/
Sponsored by NAfME, the Electronic Music Composition Contest recognizes outstanding compositions and is held to highlight the effectiveness of music technology in the school curriculum. Entries will be judged based on their aesthetic quality, use of electronic media, and the power of the composition and its presentation in communicating the excitement and effectiveness of electronic music composition in the school curriculum. What: Yale Glee Club Emerging Composers Competition Who: 9-12, and Collegiate Website: http://gleeclub.yalecollege.yale.edu/
The Yale Glee Club is calling for submissions of compositions that are SATB and 3-5 minutes in length, and suitable for a college choir. Winners receive $1,500 plus a trip to New Haven for the premiere performance of the composition. What: Veiled Prophet Parade Liberty Drum Challenge Who: High School marching bands Website: http://www.americasbirthdayparade.com/band-competition
VP Parade’s Liberty Drum Challenge is one of the premier high school band competitions in the region with $10,000 in cash prizes. The awards ceremony held immediately after the parade in Post Foods Parade Town. Contest bands are judged at locations along the parade route by judges selected from the band staffs of several Midwestern universities. In addition to the financial prizes, trophies are presented to the outstanding drum majors, outstanding percussion section and outstanding auxiliary.
MAY What: NAfME National Honor Ensembles Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://www.nafme.org/programs/all-national-honor-ensembles/
Outstanding student musicians from throughout the country will rehearse and perform with renowned conductors in the NAfME All-National Honor Ensembles. Only students that qualified for all-state are eligible to audition. What: US Army All-American Marching Band Who: High school marching band seniors in the 2015-2016 school year Website: http://www.nafme.org/programs/u-s-army-all-american-marching-band/
High School Juniors who exhibit exceptional musicianship, marching achievement, character, and leadership are eligible. Students must be active members of their high school band and be nominated by their high school band director. Students receive national acclaim, an all-expense paid trip to perform as a member of the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band including airfare, hotel, food, rehearsal gear, performance gear, instrument (borrowed), and more. What: Music Publishers Association of the United States Copyright Awareness Scholarship Who: grades 9-12 Website: http://www.mpa.org/
MPA is looking for students to creatively present their viewpoints, in VIDEO format, on the importance of Intellectual property and Copyright Law. All submissions must consist primarily of original material. If a submission contains copyrighted material, please submit evidence of permission to use that material. What: Great Composers Competition Who: ages 5-25 Website: www.gccseries.online/
The global Great Composer Competition is a series of online international music competitions for young instrumentalist. Based in London, multiple competitions are organized on a rotating basis throughout the year, offering more than 30 competitions in many categories.
ART
SEPTEMBER What: National School Bus Safety Poster Contest Who: Grades K-8 and Special Education Website: http://napt.org/nsbsw
Savings Bond prizes will be awarded and the overall winner’s poster will be used as the following year’s Bus Safety Week theme artwork. What: Doodle 4 Google Who: Grades K-12 Website: http://www.google.com/doodle4google/
Students use their artistic talents to think big and redesign Google’s homepage logo for millions to see. One lucky student artist will see their artwork appear on the Google homepage - and as a special bonus, the winning artwork will appear on a limited edition of Crayola’s iconic 64 box! The National Winner will have his or her doodle featured on the U.S. Google.com homepage, receive a $30,000 college scholarship, a trip to New York and more. The winner's full time school will receive a $50,000 technology grant towards the establishment or improvement of a computer lab or technology programming. Four national, fifty state, and 250 other state winners will also be awarded various monetary or other prizes. What: ACT Missouri Art Contest Who: Grades 1-12 Website: https://actmissouri.org/events/annual-events/red-ribbon-week/art-contest-application/
ACT Missouri’s mission is to reduce underage drinking and substance use. The organization asks students to create a prevention poster based on the yearly theme that will empower youth, adults and communities to work together to reduce underage drinking. Winners will be featured in the yearly calendar and other ACT resources.
OCTOBER What: Mystery Build Projects Who: All Ages Website: http://mysterybuild.com/
Mystery Build is offering $21,000 in cash awards to participants who can create something amazing using only the materials provided in the current year’s materials kit, without knowing what they will have to work with. Create your project individually or as a team. What: 100 Neediest Cases Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://www.stl.unitedway.org/people-we-help/how-we-help/100-neediest-cases/
Any high school student may submit an original illustration, photograph or video for publication. Artwork can depict (but is not limited to depicting) one or more of the groups of cases: sick children, the unemployed, single parents, the elderly, chronic and terminal illness, homelessness, large families, disabled and general poverty conditions. Though the competition is not restricted to students with exceptional talent, instructors should encourage each participant to create artwork that he/she would be proud to display. The top 4 submissions receive Art Mart gift cards. All artwork is displayed at the Missouri History Museum. What: Constitution Day Poster Design Contest Who: Grades K-12 Website: www.constitutionfacts.com/constitution-poster-design-contest
K-12 entrants celebrate Constitution Day (Sept. 17) by designing a poster showing how they benefited from the freedoms embodied in the U.S. Constitution. Posters will be judged on content relevant to Constitution and artistic design. Winners (one per grade) receive a commemorative coin with the Grand Prize winner receiving a $100 U.S. savings bond. What:George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest Who: Grades 1-3. 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12 Website: http://artcontest.nra.org/ Contact: [email protected]
Entries may portray any North American game bird or animal that may be legally hunted or trapped. Endangered species and non-game animals, such as eagles and snakes, are not eligible subjects. Prizes range from $250-$750 in four grade categories; Best of Show is awarded $1,000.
What: Earth Science Week Photography Contets Who: all ages Website: http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests/photography
The American Geosciences Institute sponsors a photography contest to celebrate Earth Science Week. The theme changes yearly. Photographs will be judged on creativity, as well as relevance to the topic.
NOVEMBER What: Youth Art Month Flag Competition Who: Grades K-16 of MAEA members Website: http://www.maea.net/youth_art_month
This nationwide event planned for Youth Art Month has students creating flag designs. Each state will select a design which will be made into a 3’ x 5’ flag and flown in Washington, D.C. during Youth Art Month as well as being displayed at the National Art Education Association convention. What: St. Louis County Health Department’s “Healthy Living” Poster/Calendar Contest Who: St. Louis County students in grades K-12 Website:
http://www.stlouisco.com/HealthandWellness/HealthPromotionandCHIP/%20%20%20%20AnnualHealthyLivingPosterContest
Judges will look for original and creative posters that promote the benefits of one of these topics: Being physically active, eating healthy foods, and being alcohol, tobacco or drug-free. The top 13 entries will receive a certificate, a full-size poster for display, and have their work featured throughout the county at health promotions and on the County’s Health Education website. All participating teachers will receive a calendar of winners. Deadline: November 1 What: Made by Milk Carton Construction Contest Who: K-8 Website: http://madebymilkcontest.com/contest-details/important-dates/
100+ cartons are required to enter the Made By Milk™ Construction Contest. The Made By Milk™ contest encourages students to build strong bones with milk and flex their creative muscles by repurposing milk cartons. The winning team can earn its school up to $5,000.Just collect school milk cartons and use at least 100 of them intact to create art that fits the theme.
What: St. Louis District Dairy Council Holiday Card Contest Who: K-8 Website: http://www.stldairycouncil.org/Dairy-Holiday-Card-Contest/
Students are invited to create and submit with any medium a dairy themed holiday card for the St. Louis District Dairy Council. One grand prize winner from the following categories will be chosen, K-2nd grade, 3rd-5th grade, and 6th-8th grade. Pictures must be in landscape orientation, on plain white, 11”x 8.5” paper. On the back of the drawing, please include student’s name and grade, school and phone number and teachers name and email address for prize notification. What: Space Foundation International Student Art Contest Who: Ages 3-18 (ages are grouped into different brackets for awards) Website: https://art.spacefoundation.org/
Awards are given to 25 winners: 1st place, 2nd place and 3rd place for each of eight age categories will receive a certificate, ribbon, personalized astronaut autograph and a prize. Space Foundation also confers one Space Foundation Achievement Award. Art work should reflect the theme for the year. What: SchooArts Advocacy Poster Contest Who: grades 9-12 Website: https://www.davisart.com/Promotions/SchoolArts/Advocacy-Poster-Design-
Contest.aspx
High School students design and create 18x24” art advocacy posters that addresses a yearly question. Winners receive a $150 gift certificate from Nasco Arts and Craft. The Frest Place winner’s design will be distributed at the NAEA National Convention and featured in the February issue of SchoolArts. The teachers of all winners receive a year subscription to SchoolArts. What: SchooArts Bumper Sticker Contest Who: grades K-5, 6-8 Website: https://www.davisart.com/Promotions/SchoolArts/Advocacy-Poster-Design-
Contest.aspx
Elementary students design and create a bumper sticker that addresses a yearly question. Winners receive $150 gift certificate from Nasco Art and Craft. The First Place winner’s deign will be distributed at the NAEA National Convention, and featured in the February issue of SchoolArts
What: Missouri Radon Poster Contest Who: Ages 9-14 Website: http://health.mo.gov/radon
This contest highlights the risks posed by indoor exposure to radon. Top posters will continue on to the national contest. For more information contact Cathy Wood at 866.628.9891 [email protected] What: Red Ribbon Photo Contest Who: all ages Website: http://redribbon.org/contest
The National Family partnership strives to raise drug awareness in youth and schools through the Red Ribbon Photo Contest. K-12 schools and families are eligible. Decorate your school or home for Red Ribbon week with the years theme and upload the pictures. Families and schools can win an iPad and $1,000 for your school.
DECEMBER What: Missouri Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts’ Conservation Poster Contest Who: Grades K-12 Website: http://dnr.mo.gov/env/swcp/pcontest/
The annual National Conservation Poster Contest provides kindergarten through 12th grade students with an opportunity to share their thoughts about soil, water and related issues. It also highlights the educational efforts of the local soil and water conservation districts. Any media may be used to create a flat or two-dimensional effect. Poster size must be between 8.5” x 11” and 22” x 28”. Students must participate in the state contest to be qualified for the National contest. What: Ocean Pals National and International Poster Contest Who: Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 Website: http://www.beneaththesea.org/ocean-pals/44617 Contact: For more information, email [email protected] or write to Ocean Pals, Beneath the Sea, 495 New Rochelle Road, Bronxville, NY 10708.
Beneath the Sea's Ocean Pals Poster and Digital Imaging Contest for Children is a national and international environmental education-through-art program. Its purpose is to encourage young people to become aware of and share their concerns for the marine environment through poster art and digital photos.
What: National Career Development Association Poetry and Poster Contest Who: Grades K-12 Website: http://ncda.org/aws/NCDA/pt/sp/ncdmonth
Students may submit poems or posters. National contest winners will be recognized, with the winning entries placed on the NCDA website, www.ncda.org. Winning entries will be displayed at the annual global conference, and the winning students will receive certificates and special congratulation gifts from NCDA. What: Celebrating Art Art Contest and Book Who: Grades K-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12 Website: http://www.celebratingart.com/
Digital images of art are eligible and must be submitted online. The top ten students in each grade category will receive a $25 check and a free copy of the book that includes their work. Teachers with five or more students published in the book will receive a free copy for their classroom. Teachers also earn classroom rewards based on student participation. The book is priced at $29.95 plus shipping and handling.
JANUARY What: Missionary Childhood Association Christmas Artwork Contest Who: Grades K-8 Website: http://www.mcakids.org/
Students who enter this annual contest could see their artwork appear as Christmas e-greetings on MCA’s website for kids. Each year, 24 different drawings are chosen as winners and one grand prize winner’s artwork is reproduced as the annual Christmas Card of the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies What: National Council for Education in the Ceramic Arts Ceramic Exhibition Who: Grades K-12 Fee: $30 per school for 10 entries; maximum of 20 entries at $60 Website: http://www.k12clay.org/
Teachers may submit up to 20 entries of their students’ best ceramic works (sent digitally in JPEG format) to be included in a National Council for Education in the Ceramic Arts Conference exhibit. Only works made primarily of clay and completed within the last two years will be accepted All winning students receive scholarships.
What: St. Louis Symphony “Picture the Music” Art Contest Who: Grades K-3 and 4-6 Website: http://www.stlsymphony.org/picture To enter, call 314-286-4189 or email [email protected].
This long running educational activity invites students to listen to a specific selection of symphonic music and then create their own artistic interpretations through paintings, colorings or drawings. What: Alliance for Young Artists and Writers’ “Scholastic Art & Writing Awards” Who: Grades 7-12 Website: http://www.artandwriting.org/
Each year, the Alliance partners with more than 100 visual and literary-arts organizations across the country to bring The Awards to local communities. Teens in grades 7 through 12 can apply in 28 categories of art and writing for the chance to earn scholarships and have their works exhibited or published. Submissions are juried by luminaries in the visual and literary arts, some of whom are past award recipients. Panelists look for works that best exemplify originality, technical skill and the emergence of a personal voice or vision. $40 million in scholarships and financial aid is available to regional and national Scholastic Award winners. What: American Recorder Society Art Contest Who: Grades 3-8 Website: http://www.americanrecorder.org/2017_cover_art_contest.php
The American Recorder Society will sponsors the American Recorder Magazine Cover Art Contest for students in grades 3-8 to create original artwork featuring the recorder. The winning artwork will appear on a cover of the American Recorder magazine. What: The Christophers Annual High School Poster Contest Who: grades 9-12 Website: http://www.christophers.org/page.aspx?pid=274
A Catholic non-profit organization founded in 1945. The Christophers uses mass media to encourage all individuals to make a positive difference in the world as expressed in the Christopher motto: “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.” The poster contest asks students to create a poster interpreting the theme One Person Can Make a Difference. Cash prizes are awarded to 1st- 3rd places and 5 honorable mentions.
FEBRUARY What: Vans Custom Culture Shoe Art Contest Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://customculture.vans.com/
The first 2,000 U.S.-based high schools that register for will receive four pairs of Vans shoes (106, Sk8-Hi, Slip On and Authentic) to make their own creations. Each shoe must represent one of four themes (Action Sports/Music/Art/Local Flavor) and an underlying theme tying the entire collection together. Photo submissions are made on-line via the Vans Custom Culture website and global voting whittles the entries down to the “Final Five” who will be given a travel budget to fly out to Los Angeles for the Vans Custom Culture Art Showcase event. The winner will receive a $50,000 grand prize for their art program and the four runners up will each receive $4,000 prizes for their programs too. What: Missouri Dept. of Conservation’s National Arbor Day Poster Contest Who: Grade 5 Website: http://www.mocommunitytrees.com/ Contact: For more information, contact [email protected].
Posters must demonstrate the theme for the year. The winner attends the Missouri’s Community Forest State Convention and receives a frame print of their poster and other prizes. The student also will plant a tree in their community. What: St. Louis Artists' Guild’s Emerson Young Artists' Showcase Who: Students age 15-19 residing within 150 miles of the St. Louis Artists’ Guild. Website: http://www.stlouisartistsguild.org/new/
One entry per student and a maximum of 10 entries per school may be submitted. Works will be exhibited during the Spring at the St. Louis Artists’ Guild. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top selections.
What: Stratasys Extreme Redesign 3D Printing Challenge Who: All Grade Levels Website: http://www.stratasys.com/extremeredesign
The Extreme Redesign 3D Printing Challenge challenges students of all levels from all over the world to create amazing new products or improve an existing product. Categories include Engineering, Art and Architecture and the Make a Difference category. Designs will be accepted online and must be created using 3D CAD software.
What: Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Who: ages 4-7, 8-11, 12-15 Website: http://tfsinthecommunity.com/dreamcar/
Toyota Financial Services Art Contest is designed to inspire creativity in youth and encourage an interest in the automotive industry. Applicants are sorted into three age categories. Judging is based on execution of concept, uniqueness, and artistry. Winners are forwarded onto the international competition in Japan. What: Nasco Postcard Contest Who: grades K-12 Website: https://www.enasco.com/page/Arts_Crafts/sketchables/ac_sketchables_rules
K-12 grade students may use any medium to create/design art work on a Nasco “Sketchables” postcard. Winners will be selected from multiple grade level categories. Prizes will be awarded to both the student artist and the school. What: ArtEffect Project Competition Who: grades 6-12 Website: http://lowellmilkencenter.org/arteffectproject/
The ArtEffect Project, with a $7,500 grand prize, gives students an opportunity to generate unique, creative interpretations both literal and abstract that honor the legacies of Unsung Heroes in an array of artistic mediums. The initiative aims to teach students the power they have to create positive change in the world through visual storytelling. Students may choose between celebrating an already discovered Unsung Hero or discovering a new Unsung Hero to share with the world.
MARCH What: National Missing Children Day Poster Contest Who: Grade 5 Website: http://www.ojjdp.gov/programs/postercontest/
Students are asked to design and draw a poster that reflects the theme and complete an application describing the importance of the theme. The winner and his/her teacher and parents will travel to Washington, D.C. to receive an award and participate in the Missing Children’s Day ceremony.
What: “The Art of Conservation” State-Fish Art Project Who: Grades K-3 and 4-12 Website: http://www.wildlifeforever.org/contest
The State-Fish Art Project provides valuable lessons about fish and the need for conservation of aquatic resources. The State-Fish Art program has two primary components: 1) the comprehensive State-Fish Art Lesson Plan, Fish ON!, available free of charge at www.statefishart.com, and 2) a national art contest which serves as an outreach initiative and showcase for youth in the arts. What: Missouri Council of Teachers of Mathematics’ Math ‘n Art Poster Contest Who: Grades K-3, 4-8, and 9-12 Website: https://www.moctm.org/MathArtContest.aspx
Students create posters using either geometric designs made with: 1) markers, colored pencils, and crayons; 2) glued-on shapes; or tessellation designs using markers, crayons, colored pencils, or glued-on shapes (TesselMania software cannot be used); or computer-generated geometric designs. What: Jr. Duck Stamp Contest Who: Grades K-12 Website: http://www.fws.gov/birds/education/junior-duck-stamp-conservation-
program/junior-duck-stamp-contest-information.php
The Junior Duck Stamp Contest is a dynamic arts and science educational program used to teach students in grades K - 12 about conservation, waterfowl and wetlands while inspiring students to use scientific skills in their artistic endeavors. What: Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://vfwauxiliary.org/scholarships/young-american-creative-patriotic-art-contest/ Contact: [email protected] or 816.561.8655
Art must be on paper or canvas; digital art is not accepted. National awards range from $500 to $10,000 in scholarships. First place also receives a plaque and airfare/two nights’ lodging to attend the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Convention. Second and Third place winners will be featured in the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Magazine and website; fourth-eighth place will be featured on the website.
What: Trash Can Decorating Contest Who: Grades K-8 Website: http://www.nomoretrash.org/trash-can-contest
Trash Can Decorating Contest is coordinated by the Missouri departments of Conservation and Transportation. One entry from each category (K-2, 3-5 and 6-8) will be selected to receive a $200 award. All first place winners will be eligible for the grand prize award of $600 and a trophy. Decorate a 30-gallon or larger trash can to be located in a prominent area of the school or community. Each design must include the No MOre Trash! logo and a litter-prevention message or slogan. What: US Kids Magazine Cover Contest Who: ages 3-12 Website: http://www.uskidsmags.com/artcontest/
Design the cover art for work for one of the three of US Kids magazine’s Turtle, Humpty Dumpty or Jack Jill. Wining schools will receive $500 for first place. The artist art work will be featured on the cover of the magazine. What: Saving Endangered Species Art Contest Who: grades K-12 Website: www.endangeredspeciesday.org Contact: David Robinson, Endangered Species Day Director [email protected]
This annual art contest is held in conjunction with the celebration of the annual national Endangered Species Day. K-12 students are encouraged to submit artwork. Winners in four age categories will receive plaques and art supply gift packs; one grand prize winner will be honored at a reception in Washington DC in May and receive a special art lesson from a professional artist. What: “The Graceful Envelope” Decorated Envelope Contest Who: All Ages Website: http://calligraphersguild.org/envelope.html
Entries must be stamped envelopes either manufactured or handmade, delivered through the US Postal Service. The envelope will not be opened. The envelope must be transformed into a piece of art creatively interpreting the years them. Quality of calligraphy or artistic lettering will be one criteria for judging.
What: Diverse- City Art Competition Who: grades K-12 Website: http://dapstl.org/diversity-art-competition/
The Diverse-City art competition offers students the opportunity to present their independent understanding and awareness of diversity and inclusion within their St. Louis communities and school. Artists’ submissions can include watercolors, oils, pastels, pen and ink, charcoal, photography, two dimensional, sculptures, mixed media, computer-generated and digital pieces (including animation, video and motion work). Competition winners’ artwork will be featured in a special exhibition at COCA (Center of Creative Arts). This exhibition will showcase 12-20 artists from over 100 submissions received. Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each category. What: Art for Animals! Who: grades K-12 Website: http://www.ifaw.org/united-states/our-work/education/art-for-animals#prettyPhoto
Sponsored by the International Fund for Animals Welfare, this contest celebrates wildlife and creativity in all its forms. Work is created on standard paper and must sue markers, crayons colored pencils and/or paint. Prizes included sketch pads, colored pencils and more.
APRIL What: Sargent Art “Brighter World” Art Contest Who: Grades K-12 Website: www.sargentart.com
K-12 art teachers may electronically submit photographs of any 2-dimensional artwork created in their classrooms, with no limit on entries. One Grand Prize winner wins a trip to New York to visit Art Museums along with one parent and the art teacher. One Elementary, middle school, and high school winner each will receive a personalized certificate as well as art supplies for the winner and the art teacher. What: United Nations International Children’s Painting Competition on the Environment Who: Students ages 9-14 Website: http://en.unesco.org/greencitizens/unep-international-childrens-painting-competition
The International Children’s Painting Competition on the Environment is organized every year by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Japan-based Foundation for Global Peace and Environment (FGPE), Bayer and Nikon Corporation. It has been held since 1991 and has received more than 3 million entries from children in over 150 countries. Paintings must be done on A4 or A3 papers. Use crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.
What: Blick Mixed Media Contest Who: grades K-12 divided into 3 divisions Website: http:www.dickblick.com/mixedmediacontest
Entries must be in the form of a mixed-media collage (2-dimaensional) or assemblage (3-dimentional). Entries must include more than one medium and be completely original. Students must complete an artist statement and all work is digitally uploaded for judging. Prizes include gift cards for Blick art supplies. What: Science without Boarders Challenge Who: Students ages 11-19 Website: https://www.livingoceansfoundation.org/education/science-without-borders-challenge/
The challenge was created to get students and teachers interested in ocean conservation through various forms of art. The annual contest inspires students to be creative while learning about important ocean conservation issues. Winning entries can receive $500 scholarships.
MAY What: Congressional Art Competition Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://conginst.org/art-competition/?compYear=2017&state=all
Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. The competition provides an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Students submit entries to their representative’s office, and panels of local artists in each district select the winning entries, which are then displayed for one year at the Capitol. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual Awards Ceremony in Washington, DC. What: FOCUS Manchester Photography Competition
Who: ages 5 to adult Website: http://www.manchestermo.gov/arts
The contest is open to amateur (no entry fee) and professional photographers ($10/photo or $25/three photos). A maximum of three entries (color and/or black and white) per person. There will be four prize categories: Amateurs ages 5-11, ages 12-20, and ages 21 and over; and Professionals ages 21 and over (who have sold an artwork in the previous 12 months). Images must have been created in the calendar year and within the approximate city limits of Manchester.
What: National Poison Prevention Week Who: grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8 Website: http://www.aapcc.org/prevention/nppw/
The purpose of the contest is to educate the public about the dangers of poisonings and poison prevention. The winning posters in each division will be nationally published on the future Poison Prevention Week poster. What: AAPT High School Physics Photo Contest Who: grades 9-12 Website: http://aapt.org/programs/contests/photocontest.cfm
The American Association of Physics Teachers High School Physics Photo Contest provides teachers and students an opportunity to learn about physics by creating visual and written illustrations of various physical concepts. Photos may be entered in one or two categories, natural photos and contrived photos.
JUNE
What: Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest Who: High School Junior and Seniors Website: http://stuckatprom.com/
The Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest challenges students to create and accessorize their prom outfits with duct tape, then wear them to prom for a chance to win scholarship cash prizes ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 (seven runners up will receive $500). The school that hosted a winning couples’ prom will also receive the same prize amount for that winner. What: Hexagon Arts Project Who: Ages 9-19 Website: http://www.hexagonproject.org/
The project has goal is to engage young people in thinking, acting and creating interdependently by creating art within the infinitely inter-linking shape of a hexagon, a metaphor for interconnectedness. An annual exhibit, centered in Scranton, PA in September as well as on-line, demonstrates critical thinking and creative problem solving in support of concepts and themes of Global Interdependence. It includes hundreds of hexagons created by students from across the United States and the world. All media are represented including ceramics, wood, paint, drawing, cast iron, digital design and mixed media.. A downloadable hexagon template is available.
THEATRE/VIDEO
NOVEMBER What: Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation Teen Talent Showcase Who: Grades 9-12 within 50-mile radius of the St. Louis Arch Website: http://www.foxpacf.org/teen-talent-showcase.aspx
Each invited school/organization may select their entry by any means they choose. Entries may consist of one to six students working together on a cohesive presentation Students may compete in (but are not limited to) the following categories: Singer, Actor, Dancer, Musician, Comedian, Magician, Ventriloquist, Circus Skills performer (i.e. Juggler, Clown, Aerialist, etc.) Each entry must perform a minimum of 3 minutes and must not exceed 5 minutes. What: Poetry Out Loud National Recitation Contest Who: Grades 9-12 Website: http://www.poetryoutloud.org/about
This recitation contest is open to all high school students and conducted in all 50 states by the National Endowment for the Arts. The schedule and curriculum for Poetry Out Loud takes place over two to three weeks, depending on each teacher’s interest and schedule, and will not require full class periods during that time. Teachers or speech coaches may choose to run the contest as an after-school program. To learn more, request a program package from Virginia Sanders at the Missouri Arts Council. Send your name, high school, and mailing address to Virginia Sanders at [email protected] to receive a DVD of best performances, poetry, program guide with optional lesson plans, poetry anthology, and a participation form. What: Thespian Playworks Who: Active members of the Thespian Society, Grades 9-12 Website: http://schooltheatre.org/home/
Thespian Playworks is a writing competition and script-development program for high school students, sponsored by the Educational Theatre Association and run by the staff of Dramatics magazine. Each year, up to four finalists are invited to bring their scripts the Thespian Festival in Lincoln, Nebraska, where they work with a professional director, a dramaturg (a working playwright who acts as script advisor and mentor), and a volunteer cast of actors to put the short plays up on their feet before a live audience.
DECEMBER What:Drive2Life PSA Contest Who: Grades 6-12 Website: http://www.scholastic.com/drive2life/
Grades 6–12 were invited to create a storyboard or written script for a 30-second Public Service Announcement (PSA) to help prevent distracted walking. The Grand Prize winner receives $1,000 and a trip to New York City, where a professional film crew will transform the student's vision into a 30-second commercial! The four runners-up (two from grades 6–8 and two from grades 9–12) each will receive $500.
January What: C-SPAN Student CAM Who: grades 6-12 Website: http://www.studentcam.org
Student CAM is C-SPAN’s annual national video documentary competition that encourages students to think critically about issues that affect our communities and our nation. Students are asked to create a short (5-7 min.) video documentary on the theme for the year. Cash prizes are awarded to 150 student documentary groups.
FEBRUARY What: International Youth Silent Film Festival Who: Students ages 20 years old or younger Website: http://www.makesilentfilm.com/index.html
Students may choose from six pre-recorded musical themes upon which to base their family-friendly/appropriate for all viewers silent film. Films may be black and white or color, and can be live action or animated. Mid-West finalist will be viewed by the public in April. What: DemocracyWorks Essay Contest Who: Grades 6-12 Website: https://www.schooltheatre.org/programs/democracyworks
The Educational Theatre Association contest is open to all middle and high school Thespians Society members. Essay must address the yearly theme. The winner will receive $1,500 toward expenses to attend Arts Advocacy Day in Washington D.C.
MARCH
What: St. Charles Community College Student Film Festival Who: 9-12 Website: https://www.stchas.edu/student-life/arts-entertainment/film-series
All submissions must be original and wholly produced, written, and/or directed by the person(s) offering the submission. Students can enter multiple categories including: documentary, comedy shorts, drama shorts, music video, and experimental/ animation. Cash prizes will be awarded to winners.
JULY
What: White House Student Film Festival Who: Grades K-12 Website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/filmfestival
Students may submit a short (less than 3 minutes) film on the theme of “The Impact of Giving Back” to be featured on the White House website. Those selected may have a chance to attend the film fest at the White House.
GENERAL What: National Young Arts Foundation Scholarship Who: Ages 15-18 Deadline: October 17, 2014 Website: http://www.youngarts.org/apply
YoungArts identifies and nurtures emerging artists ages 15-18 (or in grades 10-12) in the visual, literary, design and performing arts. Winners in cinematic arts, dance, design, jazz, music, photography, theater, visual arts, voice, and writing are provided once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, significant access to scholarships and national recognition. YoungArts ensures the nation’s most outstanding young artists are encouraged – at critical junctures in their lives – to pursue careers in the arts. Up to $10,000 in monetary awards, master classes, access to scholarships, etc. available. What: Yes I Can! Council for Exceptional Children Awards Who: Ages 2-21 Deadline: October Website: http://www.cec.sped.org/yesican
The Yes I Can! Awards honor children and youth with disabilities (ages 2-21) who have excelled. CEC selects winners for their outstanding achievements in one of seven categories, including the Arts. Winners will attend a special awards ceremony and celebration at the CEC Convention & Expo in Philadelphia with two nights’ accommodations; receive a statue, be featured on CEC’s website, and more. Each individual nominated for the Yes I Can! Awards will receive a certificate of accomplishment. What: Missouri Alliance for Arts Education Fine Arts Education Day Essay / Video
Contest Who: Grades 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 Deadline: January Website: http://www.moaae.org/contests_and_recognitions_0.aspx
Essays should be no longer than 500 words. Videos can range from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. One winning essay and video per category will be selected for a monetary prize of $50 for the student and $50 for the sponsoring fine arts teacher to be used for classroom fine arts supplies. Awards will be presented at the MAEE Fine Arts Education Day at the State Capitol.
What: National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry’s Multi-media Youth Arts Contest Who: Grades 7-9 and 10-12 Deadline: March 31 Website: http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-
development/multimedia-youth-contest/multimedia-youth-contest-faq.cfm Contact: For more information, contact Meg Olson at 314.267.5500 x. 1128 or
The Multi-Media Youth Arts Contest invites students to learn about poverty, its causes, and the Church’s response, then create art to teach others what they have learned. Any form of multimedia work is welcome (ex: short stories, PowerPoint presentations, videos, songs, painting, drama.) The national grand prize winner will be honored at the annual conference sponsored by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry and will receive a cash prize.
What: Ringling College of Art + Design RING AWARDS Story telling Contest
Who: Grades 7-9 and 10-12 Deadline: May Website: http://theringawards.com/
Teachers can register students in a challenging competition using a combination of images and words. Give the provided theme your own spin using illustration, photography or Instagram video for a chance to win attendance at Ringling College’s Pre-College & Teacher Institute Programs and/or an all-expense paid trip to Universal’s Island Adventure in Orlando, Florida.
What: National High School Research Competition in the Arts,
Humanities and Social Sciences Who: Grades 9-12 Deadline: January Website: http://getinspired.mit.edu/
The INSPIRE student group at Massachusetts Institute of Technology introduces a national research competition in the arts, humanities and social sciences, enabling high school students to showcase and present original research in one of 13 fields. Approximately one hundred finalists will be selected to participate in the competition's final round – a two-day event on MIT's campus in Cambridge, MA, which will bring together experts and students. Expert judges will award prizes for the most outstanding work in each category.
What: Cornell University’ Fashion Design Award Competition Who: Grades 9-12 Deadline: December Website: http://www.human.cornell.edu/fsad/cornell-design-award-winners.cfm
Students design an outfit for the modern nomad/traveler following the yearly theme. Winners will be invited to attend the Cornell Fashion Collective’s fashion show in April, among other prizes. What: University of Illinois Fine Arts Competitions Who: Grades 9-12 Deadline: Ongoing Website: https://faa.illinois.edu/future-students/high-schools-competitions
Students are encouraged to participate in competitions for all fine arts mediums, music, visual arts, theatre and dance. Competitions occur throughout the entire academic year. Winning seniors will receive scholarships to attend the University of Illinois and students 9-11 will receive scholarships to attend a fine arts summer camp at the University of Illinois.