The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) have announced the return of their annual student art contest, which is expanding to include new types of entries. This year’s theme, “A Touch of Art!,” invites young artists across Illinois to submit works exploring any interpretation of “touch”—from physical sensation to emotional connection, or even just a hint of something.
In a new twist, students may submit not only traditional two-dimensional works, such as drawings and paintings, but also three-dimensional pieces, including sculptures and collages. The contest is open to Illinois students from kindergarten through high school, with the deadline for submissions set for January 10.
“Art opens a world of endless creativity and innovation, so we’re thrilled to offer new ways for young artists to participate in this contest,” said Christina Shutt, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. “Year after year, the entries in this contest leave us smiling at the talent Illinois children display. We hope students will seize this opportunity to let their imaginations run wild and impress us in brand new ways.”
To ensure fairness across age groups, the contest will be divided into four categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Each category will have a winner and two runners-up, with the winners announced on March 10 as part of the state’s celebration of Arts Education Week. Winning and runner-up pieces will be displayed at the ALPLM through August 15, with the top selection, designated as "best of show,” featured on a poster distributed to schools in celebration of Arts Education Week. The “best of show” winner will also be recognized at an ISBE Board meeting, and a framed version of their work will hang in the ISBE office.
“Art challenges students to explore and experience the world in new ways,” noted State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “We are proud to sponsor this year’s student art contest with the theme 'A Touch of Art,' highlighting the essential role of the arts in a well-rounded education. I’m eager to see the imaginative ways our young artists showcase the incredible talent we have in Illinois. I encourage all of our arts educators to share this opportunity with their students.”
For submissions, two-dimensional works must be no larger than 14 by 11 inches, while three-dimensional pieces must not exceed 12 by 12 by 12 inches. To comply with contest guidelines, works should avoid copyrighted characters and themes. Submissions are open to all Illinois students, regardless of schooling type, including those in public, private, alternative, and home schools. Youth groups may also participate.
For more details on how to enter, visit bit.ly/ALPLM-ArtContest.