About the Contest

In partnership with the Union County Community Arts Council, Union County kids in Kindergarten through 12th grade participated in the America 250 Student Art Contest! Inspired by “America the Beautiful,” students created artwork that reflects what makes America beautiful, from national landscapes to meaningful local places in Union County.

Finalists will be featured in a public exhibition, and the community will vote to select People’s Choice winners, who will be recognized at the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Monday, July 20.

The submission period for student entries and the voting period are closed.

Student Prompt

What does “America the Beautiful” mean to you? 

 Students may create artwork that shows: 

• Nature (forests, lakes, wildlife, skies)
• Local scenery in Union County
• Parks, trails or outdoor spaces
• Places special to your family
• Scenes from anywhere in the United States
• Patriotic elements or what being American means to you

Who Can Enter

This contest is open to all Union County youth, grades K-12. This includes public, charter, private, and homeschool students.

Entries will be placed into one of three student grade categories: K-3, 4-6 or 7-12. This is based on the student's grade level during the 2025-2026 school year.

Artwork Requirements

• Must be original student work
• Must be 2D (flat artwork only)
• Maximum size of artwork: 18” x 24”
• Materials: paper or canvas (no frame required)

Students must create artwork to be placed in one of the following categories:

• Drawing (pencil, colored pencil, marker, crayon, oil pastel, etc.)
• Painting (watercolor, oil-based or acrylic)
• Photography (no AI-generated images permitted)

Questions? Email Vanessa Martin, Communications & Engagement Specialist.