Illinois students are being asked to put their creativity to work for a special, statewide art contest, that celebrates America’s upcoming 250th birthday. Sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum along with the Illinois State Board of Education, the ‘America 250: Reflections through Art’ contest encourages young artists to share what this milestone means to them through personal expression. The annual competition invites students from kindergarten age through high school, to explore how they see the United States past, present and future. The deadline to enter is set for December 19th, 2025.

Students may submit two-dimensional artwork that can be no larger than 11 x 14 inches, using any canvas they choose whether physical or digital. Submissions will be grouped into four grade categories: Kindergarten to 2nd grade, 3rd through 5th grade, 6th grade to 8th grade, and a high school age class. One winner and two runner-ups will be selected from each group. The winning pieces will be announced on March 10th, 2025 during ‘Arts Education Week’ and will be displayed at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum through May 8th of next year. The four winning artworks will also be featured on a poster that is sent to schools across Illinois.

Christina Shutt, Executive Director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, said the contest offers an opportunity for students to show how they interpret America’s story in their own way. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders, said art gives students a voice and a platform to tell their stories. He said the contest allows children to express how they view the United States now and moving forward.

Entries can come from public, private, alternative or home schools, as well as youth groups or independent students. Artwork may not feature copyrighted characters. For complete contest details, visit www.bit.ly/alplm-artcontest.com.