We invite high school students to create original art to raise awareness about one of the most pressing issues of our time.   Top prize: $100

ART CHALLENGE TOPIC:

Technology and Humanity – Finding Balance

Consider the following questions as you think about this topic:

• How can technology enhance peace, justice, and sustainability, and how might it hinder these goals?
• What does responsible use of technology look like in our everyday lives?
• How can we prevent technology from deepening inequalities or spreading misinformation?
• What role does art play in preserving human connection in an increasingly digital world?
• How can technology and art collaborate to inspire positive change?

ART CHALLENGE GUIDELINES AND DETAILS:

Grade levels: 9-12

Requirements: Work must be two-dimensional and must be mounted individually on black matte board (18” x 24” horizontal and no more than 1/8th inch thick). You may use acetate to cover delicate works such as charcoal or pastel. (These requirements are very important as the finalist art pieces will be framed for the exhibit that will take place at Wharton Center for Performing Arts.)

Paperwork: All projects must be submitted with the filled-out name tags typed, printed in color, and mounted on black matte board (5.5” x 8.5”) on both sides. On one side, the name tag should include the name of the student, school, his/her teacher’s name, the title for the art piece and a brief statement (1-3 sentences) describing the artwork’s message. On the other side, only the title for the art piece and the brief statement should appear. Moreover, another name tag will full information (name of student, school, teacher’s name, title) should be taped (or glued) to the back of the art piece’s matte board for ease of identification.  Please fill out the teacher inventory form for your school as well. Both the name tag template and the teacher inventory form are available here.

Timeline: The deadline for submissions is September 26, 2025. Work will be returned to students after the exhibit.

Display & Awards: Finalists will be selected based on juror’s choice. After that, the final rankings will be decided based on public vote and juror’s choice. The awards are: $100 for first place, $75 for second place, and $50 for third place. In addition, there may be honorable mentions.

Questions? email peacequestlansing@gmail.com