15 Best Art Competitions for High School Students in 2024
Art competitions offer high school students a platform to showcase their creativity, skills, and passion for the arts. Participating in these competitions not only provides an opportunity for recognition but also encourages students to push their boundaries and explore new artistic horizons. Whether it's painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, or digital art, there's a competition out there for every aspiring young artist. In this blog post, we'll highlight 15 art competitions specifically tailored for high school students, providing them with a chance to shine on a national or even international stage.
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15 Art Competitions for High School Students
1. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards stand as a beacon of recognition for young artists across the United States. With its rich history spanning nearly a century, this competition has been a launchpad for countless artists, writers, and creatives. Students can submit their work in a wide array of categories, from traditional mediums like painting and sculpture to contemporary forms such as digital art and photography. Winning a Scholastic Award not only brings prestige but also opens doors to scholarships, exhibitions in renowned galleries, and national recognition. For high school artists, this competition serves as a validation of their talent and a stepping stone towards a future in the arts.
2. YoungArts Competition
The YoungArts Competition is more than just a contest; it's a transformative experience that nurtures the artistic growth of young talents. Each year, thousands of high school students from diverse backgrounds participate in this prestigious competition, vying for scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to be recognized on a national stage. Winners not only receive financial support but also gain access to master classes, workshops, and networking events with industry professionals. Whether they excel in visual arts, design, photography, or other disciplines, YoungArts winners join an esteemed alumni network and embark on a journey of artistic discovery and enrichment.
3. National Art Honor Society (NAHS) Juried Exhibition
Exclusively open to members of the National Art Honor Society, the NAHS Juried Exhibition offers high school artists a platform to showcase their best work among peers who share their passion for creativity. This competition not only recognizes outstanding talent but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among young artists. Winning entries are displayed at the NAHS Juried Exhibition, providing participants with the opportunity to have their artwork seen by a wider audience and gain invaluable exposure in the art world.
4. Doodle for Google
Doodle for Google is a unique competition that invites high school students to unleash their imagination and creativity by designing a Google Doodle that reflects their interpretation of a given theme. With the potential to have their artwork featured on the Google homepage, participants have the chance to reach millions of viewers worldwide. Beyond the spotlight, winners of Doodle for Google receive scholarships, tech packages, and other exciting prizes, making it a rewarding experience for aspiring young artists looking to make their mark on the digital canvas.
5. Congressional Art Competition
Organized by members of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Congressional Art Competition offers high school students the opportunity to showcase their artistic talent on a national stage. Each congressional district selects a winning artwork, which is then displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year, providing participants with a unique chance to have their creations seen by legislators, visitors, and dignitaries from around the country. Beyond the honor of having their work exhibited in the nation's capital, winners may also receive scholarships and other recognition, making this competition a prestigious milestone for budding artists with aspirations for wider recognition.
6. International Aviation Art Contest
Sponsored by the National Aeronautic Association, the International Aviation Art Contest invites high school students to explore the world of aviation through art. By channeling their creativity into depictions of aircraft, pilots, and the wonders of flight, participants have the opportunity to win recognition and have their artwork displayed at aviation museums and events worldwide. This competition not only celebrates the intersection of art and aviation but also inspires young artists to dream big and reach for the skies in pursuit of their passions.
7. Ocean Awareness Student Contest
The Ocean Awareness Student Contest provides a unique platform for high school students to express their creativity while raising awareness about environmental conservation and ocean stewardship. Through visual art, poetry, prose, or multimedia projects, participants delve into pressing issues affecting our oceans, from plastic pollution to climate change. This competition not only encourages artistic expression but also empowers young artists to become advocates for environmental sustainability. Winners receive recognition for their impactful contributions and the opportunity to inspire positive change in their communities and beyond.
8. Young American Talent
Hosted by the Dallas Museum of Art, the Young American Talent competition celebrates the artistic achievements of high school students in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. This prestigious event offers young artists the opportunity to exhibit their work in a professional museum setting, gaining exposure and recognition within the local art community. Winners of the Young American Talent competition receive scholarships and awards, supporting their continued artistic development and encouraging them to pursue their passions in the arts.
9. The Artist’s Magazine Annual Art Competition
The Artist’s Magazine Annual Art Competition provides a platform for high school artists to showcase their talent alongside professionals from around the world. With a specific category dedicated to young artists under 18, this competition offers an opportunity for emerging talents to gain exposure and recognition in the art community. Winners not only receive cash prizes but also have the honor of having their artwork published in The Artist’s Magazine, reaching a wide audience of art enthusiasts and professionals.
10. Annual High School Art Exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City hosts an annual High School Art Exhibition, offering young artists the prestigious opportunity to have their work displayed in one of the world's leading art institutions. This competition invites high school students from across the country to submit their artwork for consideration. Selected pieces are showcased in a dedicated exhibition space within the museum, providing participants with unparalleled exposure and recognition within the art world. Winners of the Annual High School Art Exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art receive scholarships, awards, and the honor of being part of a storied tradition that celebrates the talent and creativity of young artists.
11. Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) Gold Circle Awards
The Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) Gold Circle Awards recognize excellence in student journalism, including categories for photography, illustration, and design. High school students working on their school's newspaper or magazine have the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents and journalistic skills on a national level. Winners of the Gold Circle Awards receive recognition for their outstanding contributions to student media and may have their work featured in CSPA publications, providing them with valuable exposure and networking opportunities within the field of journalism.
12. National YoungArts Week
National YoungArts Week is the culmination of the YoungArts competition, bringing together finalists from across the country for a week-long celebration of artistic excellence. During this immersive experience, young artists participate in performances, exhibitions, and master classes led by renowned professionals in their respective fields. National YoungArts Week not only provides finalists with the opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage but also fosters a supportive community of like-minded creatives. By connecting with peers and mentors, participants gain valuable insights and inspiration that propel their artistic growth and development.
13. Pentel International Art Competition
The Pentel International Art Competition invites young artists to unleash their creativity using Pentel products, from pens and pencils to markers and paints. With a focus on originality and artistic expression, this competition encourages participants to explore their unique vision and style. Winners of the Pentel International Art Competition receive cash prizes and have their artwork featured in Pentel publications, showcasing their talent to a global audience. By participating in this competition, young artists have the opportunity to expand their artistic horizons and gain recognition for their creativity and skill.
14. National Geographic Student Photo Contest
The National Geographic Student Photo Contest invites high school students to showcase their photography skills while capturing the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Whether it's landscapes, wildlife, or cultural moments, participants have the opportunity to tell powerful stories through their images. Winners of the National Geographic Student Photo Contest receive prizes and have their photographs featured on the National Geographic website, reaching a global audience of millions. This competition not only celebrates the talent and creativity of young photographers but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the world around us.
15. DAFT Festival Poster/Program Design Contest
Digital Arts, Film & Television (DAFT) is a non-profit media-arts educational organization founded in 1969 whose primary mission is to promote the creative use of film and electronic media. The organization hosts the annual Michigan Student Festival, numerous workshops, conferences and presentations for teachers, students and media professionals. Among these events is the DAFT Festival Poster/Program Design Contest which allows high school students across Michigan to showcase their design skills in promoting the Student Festival. The winner receives a $200 cash prize, while $50 is allotted for two honorable mentions.
Conclusion
Participating in art competitions can be a rewarding experience for high school students passionate about the arts. Whether they win or not, the process of creating, submitting, and showcasing their artwork can help them grow as artists and individuals. These 15 competitions offer a diverse range of opportunities for young artists to explore their talents, gain recognition, and connect with other like-minded individuals in the art community. So, if you're a high school student with a love for art, why not take a chance and enter one of these competitions? Who knows, it could be the first step towards a successful career in the arts!
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