Union County, NC
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About the Contest
In partnership with the Union County Community Arts Council, Union County kids in Kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to participate in the America 250 Student Art Contest! Inspired by “America the Beautiful,” students will create 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.
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)
How to Submit
Submissions may be dropped off through Friday, June 12. Submissions must include a printed submission form attached to the back of the student's entry, so we have the artist's and contact information.
Drop-off locations include:
- Any Union County Library location
- Union County Government Center (front security desk)
Attach a completed submission form to the back of your artwork. Forms can be printed at home or printed at your local library.
Questions? Email Vanessa Martin, Communications & Engagement Specialist.
Art Contest Timeline
June 15-26
A panel of local Union County artists select finalists based on category and age group. Artwork may be placed throughout Union County Government locations during this period.
June 26 - July 10
Based on the selection of finalists, student artwork will be placed on Engage Union County for voting. Both residents and non-residents may sign up to vote for the People's Choice winners.
Monday, July 20
Our "People's Choice" student artists will be recognized at the Board of County Commissioners meeting. Students selected will be invited to an art reception, be recognized during the meeting, receive a certificate, and get a photo with County Commissioners.