JURIED ART CONTEST FOR ARTISTS WITH DISABILITIES IN MARYLAND
Theme:
“Happiness is…”
IN THE SPIRIT OF ELLENE “BRIT” CHRISTIANSEN
Sponsored by the Ellene “Brit” Christiansen Memorial
Categories:
Elementary (5 yrs. to 13 yrs.), Secondary (14 yrs. to 21 yrs.), Adult (22 & up)
Eligibility:
Artists with disabilities who are Maryland residents.
One submission per artist, completed entry/release form signed by parent or legal guardian of artist or adult artist.
Deadline for Submissions: Monday, February 16, 2026.
Medium:
Drawing, painting, digital art, printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, or photography.
Abstract or representational subject matter conveying: “Happiness is…”
(However the artist interprets this concept/feeling.)
*No copyrighted or AI generated imagery. Artwork must be an original creation by the artist.
Submissions will be judged by jurors on the following criteria:
-Authentic mark making/creation by the artist.
-Creative and original interpretation of the theme “Happiness is…” (*Abstract or representational.)
-Composition. (*Have the art elements been arranged in an aesthetically pleasing way?)
-Technique. (*Does the artwork appear to be complete? Are skill, persistence, and/or experimentation evident?)
COMPLETED APPLICATION/RELEASE FORM AND A 300DPI JPEG IMAGE OF THE ARTWORK SENT VIA EMAIL TO: britmemorial@gmail.com by February 16, 2026.
*A $25 gift card to Michaels Arts and Crafts for the first hundred applicants in each age category (except for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners).
Awards:
First place: $1,000, Second place: $500, Third place: $250
(1st, 2nd, 3rd places for each age category)
Additional Prizes:
Eight additional Brit Board of Directors prizes for each age category in the amount of $100 each.
Winners will be notified/announced by the end of March 2026.
Questions should be sent to britmemorial@gmail.com