We’ve got exciting news for all the young creators out there: the 19th Annual K12 Art Competition is officially open—and this year, we’re bringing even more creativity under one colorful umbrella!
That’s right: We’ve combined our popular art and photography competitions into one incredible event, giving K–12 students more ways to express themselves and more chances to be recognized for their talent.
Whether you love sketching with pencil, designing on a tablet, or capturing the world through your camera lens, this competition is your moment to shine. 🎨📸✨
Who can enter?
The competition is open to all K–12 students nationwide—whether you’re a curious kindergartener just picking up a paintbrush or a seasoned high school photographer with a sharp eye for detail. No matter your grade or experience level, if you have a passion for visual art, we want to see what you can create!
What’s new for 2025?
This year’s competition features three exciting categories, all under one creative roof:
- Physical Art: Paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more—if you can touch it, it belongs here.
- Digital Art: From digital paintings to eye-catching graphic designs, let your tech-savvy creativity run wild.
- Photography: Whether it’s a scenic shot or a candid moment, your photos tell a story—share it with us!
By combining art and photography into one event, we’re celebrating all types of visual creativity in one big, bold showcase!
Prizes That Celebrate Creativity
Every masterpiece deserves recognition. We’re awarding cash prizes to top entries in every grade level—K through 12—in all three categories. That’s 78 total winners!
- 1st Place: $250
- 2nd Place: $100
- People’s Choice: $50
And yes—there’s a People’s Choice prize in every grade level too! Share your entry and rally your supporters to vote during the public voting period.
Judging Criteria
Our expert judges will evaluate entries based on creativity, technique, and overall impact. Each category has its own special focus:
- Physical Art: Creativity, technical skill, composition, expression
- Digital Art: Creativity, technical proficiency, composition, innovation
- Photography: Creativity, technical skill, composition, storytelling
How to Enter
Getting started is easy:
- Create your artwork in one of the three categories.
- Upload your artwork on the competition site by August 25, 2025.
- Share your entry during the public voting period to boost your chance at winning the People’s Choice award!
Key Dates
- Submission Period: May 13–August 25, 2025
- Public Voting: August 26–September 26, 2025
- Judging Period: August 26–October 3, 2025
- Winners Announced: October 22, 2025
Don’t forget to mark your calendar and start creating!
Need some inspiration?
Take a look at last year’s winning entries and see what your peers have created. Their work might just spark your next great idea—and remind you that every artist started right where you are now.
Check the Rules and Submit on Time
Before submitting, be sure to review the competition rules, judging criteria, and prize breakdown. Double-check that your artwork meets the requirements and submit your entry by August 25, 2025. You could win up to $250 and see your work celebrated!
Your Art Deserves the Spotlight
Whether you’re an aspiring painter, a digital dreamer, or a photo fanatic, this is your time to create, share, and shine. Enter the 19th Annual K12 Art Competition and show the world what you can do!
For more details and to submit your artwork, visit https://enrichment.k12.com/art-competition/.