Cool Contests for Creative Kids in 2022–2023
Multidisciplinary contests
Next Narrative Monologue Competition (NNMC)
This new national arts education program for high school students, to be hosted at Seattle Rep, will feature and expose participants to the works of a host of contemporary African American playwrights. Participants will learn acting techniques from professional coaches, and explore how art and culture influence personal perspectives. The competition launched in the fall of 2021 and is open to all students in grades 9–12 living in Washington state. The national finals for this round will be held in May 2022. There is no fee to participate, and students need not have any previous theatrical experience. Check the website for upcoming opportunities later in 2022.
YoungArts
YoungArts holds a major national contest for 15- to 18-year-old (grades 10–12) visual, literary and performing artists in 10 disciplines. Applications open in June and close in October, with winners announced in three categories in December. Winners receive cash prizes from $100 to $10,000, as well as lifelong access to mentors, workshops and residencies. Cost to enter is $35 (which can be waived).
Holocaust Center for Humanity’s Writing, Art and Film Contest
This contest challenges students to use writing, art or film to explore the history and stories of the Holocaust and to consider the impact of individual actions. The contest opens with two prompts published in December. Students in grades 5–12 from Washington, Idaho, Montana and Alaska are eligible. Entries will be accepted January 1–May 13, 2022. Winning entries are displayed by the center throughout the year, and winners receive cash prizes of as much as $200.
Emerald Youth Review
The Emerald Parents Association posts a new prompt for stories, essays or artwork about historical events or characters each month. Asian American students in grades 3–12 can enter by the end of the month for a chance to win $10.
Washington History Day
Held as part of National History Day, Washington History Day is a social studies program administered by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction in Washington state that challenges middle and high school students to develop their historical research skills. Individual students or teams in grades 6–8 and grades 9–12 research the annual topic and then present their work in one of five formats: a historical research paper, dramatic performance, multimedia documentary, a museum-quality exhibit or a navigable website. There is no registration fee, and the 2022 deadline is April 13. Winners progress through regional, state and national levels. Prizes may include certificates, medals, trophies, scholarships or cash.
Scholastic Art and Writing Contests
For younger kids, Scholastic frequently runs free art and writing contests through its website. Winners are chosen at random and receive prizes, such as a box of books.
Get to Know
The Get to Know contest promotes environmental learning by encouraging young people to connect with and interpret the natural world around them through art, photography and writing. It is open to anyone ages 19 and younger, with both place-based and artform categories. Entries must be submitted by June 1 each year. Prizes include items such as binoculars and art supplies.
