The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is inviting Allegheny County students to show how they see the natural world through a new youth art contest.
The inaugural Drawn to Nature Art Contest is open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. This year’s theme, “My Place in Nature,” asks young artists to create an original, two-dimensional work inspired by a meaningful outdoor space — from a neighborhood park or hiking trail to a schoolyard or backyard.
“Nature isn’t just found in vast wilderness — it thrives in our city parks, backyards, and neighborhood green spaces,” James Brown, the conservancy’s director of education and the Frick Environmental Center, said in a statement. “This contest is a wonderful opportunity for our youth to express their personal connections to the environment and inspire our entire community to look more closely at the beauty right outside their doors.”
Entries will be divided into two age groups: kindergarten through sixth grade and seventh through 12th grade. Judges will consider creativity, originality, artistic technique, craftsmanship and how well the work connects to the theme. Students must also submit a brief artist statement explaining their inspiration.
Selected finalists will have their artwork displayed at the Frick Environmental Center as part of an exhibition planned for early 2027. They will also receive a $100 Michaels gift card, conservancy merchandise and recognition through the organization’s newsletter and social media.
Submissions are open through 8 p.m. Oct. 24. Finalists are expected to be notified by Nov. 13, with original artwork due to the Frick Environmental Center by Dec. 5.
Contest rules and submission information are available on the Parks Conservancy website.