20 years of creativity. Countless ways to color your world!
Your way. Your medium.
For two decades, the K12 Art Competition has celebrated the imagination, talent, and unique perspectives of young artists across the country. Now in its 20th year, we’re inviting students in grades K–12 to add their own color to the story—through bold ideas, meaningful expression, and original artwork that reflects how they see the world.
From vibrant paintings and sculptural creations to innovative digital designs, this year’s competition is all about showcasing what makes your creativity stand out.
However you choose to express yourself, this is your moment to be seen, celebrated, and inspired.
Who can enter?
All U.S. students in grades K–12 are eligible to enter this national competition designed to celebrate creativity in a safe, student-first environment. Students compete against others in their own grade level.
(Parents or guardians must enter on behalf of students under 13.)
Why add your art to the picture?
- Be seen and celebrated for your creativity!
- Represent your school and community with pride.
- Join a national competition trusted by families for 20 years.
- Win cash prizes, national recognition, and bragging rights!
How It Works
1. Create an original piece of art
2. Submit a photo of your work
3. See your creativity reviewed, voted on, and celebrated
Pick Your Palette
Your way. Your medium.
Choose the medium that best brings your ideas to life. Submit a clear photo of your artwork, and if selected as a finalist, you’ll also share a short video to help judges better understand your creative process and inspiration.
Original artwork only. AI-generated content is not permitted.
Physical Art
Entries in this category could be either 2D or 3D creations using traditional materials.
Examples:
- Paintings: Watercolor, acrylic, oil, or gouache on canvas or paper.
- Drawings: Pencil, charcoal, ink, or pastel on paper.
- Sculptures: Clay, wood, metal, or found objects transformed into 3D works.
- Collages: Unique compositions made by assembling paper, fabric, and other materials.
Digital Art
Entries in this category come to life using digital tools and software.
Examples:
- Digital Paintings: Created with tools like Procreate, Adobe Photoshop, or Corel Painter.
- Illustrations: Vector or raster illustrations made with tools like Adobe Illustrator or Clip Studio Paint.
- Graphic Designs: Posters, logos, and other design projects created using design software.
Prizes You Can Win
Judges' Choice
A panel of Stride, Inc. judges will select one 1st- and 2nd-Place winner per grade for each category—that’s 52 Judges’ Choice winners!
First Place
$250
(Your choice of cash or Tango e-gift card)
Second Place
$100
(Your choice of cash or Tango e-gift card)
People's Choice
Become a fan favorite! Public voting will determine 1 winner per grade for each category—that’s 26 total People’s Choice winners!
$50
(Your choice of cash or Tango e-gift card)
Art Competition Judging Criteria
Here’s what the judges are looking for:
Physical Art
- Creativity and originality
- Technical skill and craftsmanship
- Composition and use of space
- Expression and emotional impact
Digital Art
- Creativity and originality
- Technical proficiency with digital tools
- Composition and visual impact
- Innovation and use of digital techniques
The K12 National Art Competition opens at 9 AM (ET) on February 25, 2026.
Important Dates
Feb. 25-June 1, 2026
Art submissions open
June 2-28, 2026
Rounds 1 & 2 judging period
June 2-July 2, 2026
Public voting period
June 29, 2026
Finalists for the Judges' Choice are notified
June 30-July 31, 2026
Round 3 judging period
Sept. 2026
Winners announced
Explore the 2025 Art Gallery
Get inspired by last year’s winning artwork and imagine what you could create.
Physical Art
Digital Art
Before registering, please take a moment to review the official rules and regulations. You’ll be asked to agree to these terms when you submit your entry.
Stay in the know.
