Calling all teens who love art. The National Center for Children and Families (NCCF) in Bethesda is inviting students in grades 9-12 in the National Capital region to participate in an art contest.
It is NCCF’s first ever Heart of Community Youth Visual Arts Contest. The theme of the contest is ‘Freedom to Express’.
Organizers say they want to “celebrate the power of self-expression and its impact on healing individuals and communities.” They urge student artists to submit work that will express thoughts, feelings, and ideas on a social issue that matters to them.
Why Art is Important
Krystal Holland is the Executive Director with the Institute for Mastery and Integration. Holland has more than 25 years of experience helping at-risk children, youth and families. She said artwork can be an incredible outlet for young people to express themselves.
“Artistic expression has the power to inspire self-discovery and confidence, adaptability and recovery and the realization of infinite possibilities,” Holland said.
“Art heals. Creative expression helps young people to not only communicate, but to also cope with the stressors that impact their lives on a daily basis. This art competition will allow students across the region an opportunity to showcase their talents and receive recognition for the messages that have meaning for them,” she added.
Entry Deadline
Participants must submit their entry form to participate by Friday, May 3, and their artwork by June 1. Judges from NCCF and the community will select the winning art work. Judging will take place in June. The winners will be notified by June 30.
Students can enter several categories that include painting, drawings, sculptures, drawing, mixed media and collages. The winners in each category will win a cash prize of $400. The artwork will then be sold at a silent auction. The proceeds will benefit NCCF so it can continue to help youth and teens at risk, and support their families.
Showcasing Winning Artwork
On Sept. 7, the artists and their families will join together for a special gala and meet with the people who bought their artwork. The event will take place at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts Terrace Theater in Washington, D.C.
The winning pieces of art will be displayed virtually. Students interested in participating can find more information at the following link:
https://files.constantcontact.com/49867e86001/e492026d-5d95-44c2-a45b-e0088d1c84c9.pdf?rdr=true
