Illinois Launches Annual Student Art Contest
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and state educators are inviting students to showcase their creativity.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Painting
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The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has teamed up with the Illinois State Board of Education to host a new student art competition. Centered on the theme My Community, My Story, the contest invites submissions from across the state to celebrate local perspectives.
Why it matters
This initiative aims to highlight the importance of creativity in classrooms while providing a platform for young artists to have their work recognized. The program serves to commemorate Arts Education Week by fostering engagement between students and historical institutions.
Eligible two-dimensional artwork must measure no larger than 11 by 14 inches. The contest is split into four distinct grade groups ranging from kindergarten through high school.
The players
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
This institution preserves the history of the 16th U.S. President and hosts cultural programming in Springfield.
Illinois State Board of Education
This state agency oversees primary and secondary public education policies across Illinois.
The details
Students are tasked with creating two-dimensional pieces that capture the theme of their local surroundings and personal experiences. Winning entries will earn a spot in an exhibition at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, with selected pieces featured on commemorative posters.
Timeline
Entries must be submitted by December 18.
Winners will be announced on March 8, 2027.
Arts Education Week takes place March 8-12.
Winning artwork will be displayed through May 9.
Culture Shift
This program aligns with the broader societal movement to bolster creative arts in public education, countering trends of reduced school funding for extracurricular enrichment. It strengthens the role of state-level cultural institutions in supporting local academic and artistic development.
Students and families can participate by ensuring submissions meet the specific sizing constraints of 11 by 14 inches. Participants should prepare their artwork ahead of the December 18 submission deadline to ensure eligibility for the state-wide exhibition.
The takeaway
The competition offers a unique opportunity for young artists to have their work professionally displayed in a state museum. Families interested in participating should focus on the theme of community to best align with the contest requirements.
Further reading
For more information on creative student initiatives, visit Painting.
Live Poll
Do you believe local art contests effectively support creative development in your community's schools?
