Art Competitions
Looking for art competitions for elementary and middle school students? These programs are a great way for students to build confidence, creativity, and artistic skills during the 2026–2027 school year.
From Doodle for Google to PTA Reflections, these art contests give students a chance to express ideas, practice creativity, and share their work in a supportive, age-appropriate setting.
Details
Doodle for Google is an annual art and creativity contest that invites students to design their own version of the Google logo based on a creative theme. Each year, selected student artwork is featured on the Google homepage.
The contest celebrates imagination, artistic expression, and storytelling, giving children a chance to share their ideas with the world.
Who can participate?
Students in Grades K–12 are welcome.
Elementary:
• Primary: Kindergarten – Grade 2
• Intermediate: Grades 3 – 5
Middle school:
• Grades 6 – 8
Who can submit an entry?
Parents, teachers, schools, homeschool programs, nonprofits,
and after-school programs may submit entries on behalf of students.
Parent or guardian permission is required.
How entries are judged:
• Artistic skill (age-appropriate)
• Creativity and imagination
• How clearly the theme is communicated
• Creative use of the Google logo
Prizes & Recognition:
• 5 Finalists selected nationally
• $10,000 college scholarship for the National Winner
• Winning artwork featured on Google.com
• Google technology and merchandise
• A $50,000 technology award for the winning student’s school
Timeline:
• Entries are typically submitted in the fall
• Finalists announced by early May
• National Winner announced by late May
Eligibility notes:
Students must be enrolled in a U.S.-based school (including homeschool)
and be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Children of U.S. military
families living abroad may also participate.
Why families like it:
Doodle for Google is a fun, low-pressure way for students to build confidence and practice creativity.
It is especially helpful for students who enjoy drawing, storytelling, and expressing their ideas visually.
The Math Kangaroo Poster Contest invites students (and adults) to design a creative poster promoting the upcoming Math Kangaroo USA competition. It is a fun way for children to combine art, creativity, and math.
Submissions for the 2027 Math Kangaroo Poster Contest are now open.
Who can participate?
• Students in Grades K–12
• Adults may also participate (separate category)
Submission Deadline for the 2026–2027 season:
The official 2027 poster submission deadline should be confirmed on the Math Kangaroo website.
Do not rely on the previous season's deadline.
What must be included on the poster:
• Math Kangaroo Competition in the USA (K–12 students)
• Competition Date: March 18, 2027
• Registration Dates: September 15, 2026 – December 31, 2026
• Website: www.mathkangaroo.org
• A math-related, eye-catching visual
Poster Format:
• Electronic submissions only (JPG, PNG, or PDF)
• Minimum resolution: 300 dpi
• Color and creativity encouraged
• One poster per person
Important rules:
• Posters must be original work
• No copied images from websites
• Posters created entirely by AI image generators are not allowed
Prizes & Recognition:
• Best Poster: $200 Amazon Gift Card
• Best T-Shirt Design: $100 Amazon Gift Card
• Winning poster featured in official Math Kangaroo 2027 materials
• Distribution to schools, libraries, and community partners nationwide
• National recognition at the Math Kangaroo Annual Award Ceremony
Why families like it:
This contest combines art and math in a creative, low-pressure way that helps students enjoy learning
while developing design skills and confidence.
The National PTA Reflections program is a long-running arts competition that encourages students to express their ideas, feelings, and creativity through original artwork. It has inspired students for over 50 years.
Each year, students create artwork inspired by a student-created theme and submit their work through their local PTA.
Who can participate?
Students in Pre-K through Grade 12 may participate.
Elementary:
• Primary: Pre-K – Grade 2
• Intermediate: Grades 3–5
Middle school:
• Grades 6–8
Arts Categories:
• Dance Choreography
• Film Production
• Literature (stories, poems, essays)
• Music Composition
• Photography
• Visual Arts (drawing, painting, mixed media)
2026–2027 Theme:
Check the current local PTA program for the official 2026–2027 theme.
Students are encouraged to create artwork that reflects their ideas,
experiences, and creativity through the year’s chosen prompt.
How to participate:
• Students submit entries through their local PTA
• Families should check with their school PTA or state PTA
for deadlines and submission details
• Parents, teachers, and caregivers may help submit entries
Recognition & Awards:
• Awards of Excellence & Awards of Merit at the national level
• Medals (Bronze, Silver, Gold) and certificates
• Scholarships for top national winners
• Artwork featured in a national virtual exhibition
When are winners announced?
National-level winners are typically announced in
May.
Why it’s great for elementary students:
Reflections builds confidence, creativity, and self-expression.
There are no tests or scores — just imagination, effort,
and a chance to be recognized for original ideas.