Visual Art Contests

Resources

Visual Art Contests

Are you looking to submit your art to contests for a chance to win prizes and publication? Then check out this list curated for YWP-aged students (13-19)! 

 

[Art Credit: "Bridges" by Goldenrose, YWP]

Created by YWP Alumni Advisor Sam Aikman in October 2024.

Celebrating Art.com 

  • Open for students grades K-12 in the US. Submit any original work that can be depicted in a still image: a drawing, painting, photograph, photo of a sculpture, collage, etc. Winners will be published on the site. 

Contests are held every spring, summer, and fall but the most current deadline is December 5th, 2024. 

 

College of Fine and Applied Arts High School Competition

  • Submit artwork that fits one of a handful of categories including architectural drawing, self-portrait, dance choreography, music, and sustainable design. Open for students in grades 9-11. Winners will receive a scholarship to attend an FFA summer program. 

Due December 15th, 2024. 

 

Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

  • For students in grades 7-12 and age 13 or older. The twenty-eight categories for submissions include photography, architecture, drawing, fashion, jewelry, printmaking, sculpture, and many more. Offering publication, generous scholarships, and a network with connections to thousands of other creative young people. 

Deadlines vary by region but most are due in December. 

 

Sony Photography Awards

  • Submit up to three images related to a common theme. For students 19 years old and younger. Prizes for 1st place include a trip to London to the award ceremony, inclusion in an exhibition, and equipment from Sony. 

Due January 3rd, 2025. 

 

Global Canvas Children’s Art Competition

  • Students up to 16 years old are invited to submit an artwork that addresses this year’s theme— “coexistence: how can humans and wildlife live in harmony?” This contest is designed to encourage an appreciation for our planet and the wildlife that lives on it. Winners from three age group categories will receive cash prizes, vouchers for art supplies, and more. 

Due February 14th, 2025. 

 

Science Without Borders Challenge

  • An art contest that invites students ages 11-19 to submit an original work addressing the challenge “Marine Keystone Species.” There are three cash prizes for each age group. 

Deadline is March 3rd, 2025. 

 

JQA International Environmental Children’s Drawing Contest

  • Submit an artwork that addresses the theme “Listen to Earth’s Voice.” For students up to age 15. Winners will receive special memorabilia. 

Due May 31st, 2025. 

 

Ocean Awareness Contest

  • Students up to age 18 can submit one creative work related to the theme “Connections to Nature.” Submissions may be art, photographs, film, a performance recording, and more. 

Deadline June 9th, 2025. 

 

The Young Arts Competition

  • Submit artwork in ten categories including photography, design, film, theater, and music. There is also a creative writing section. Open for students ages 15-18 who live in the US. 

Submissions open July 2025. 

 

Teen Ink

  • A national teen (ages 13-19) magazine that publishes photos, art, and videos as well as creative writing of any kind. 

Submit anytime. Also, check out their “contests” page for more specific and timely prompts.

 

[Do you know of a contest that is not included here? Message Love to write to have it added!]