COMPETITION GUIDELINES
*Please read through the guidelines before applying. The application can be found at the bottom of this page.
Eligibility
Any high school senior slated to graduate in 2026. This competition includes public and private schools as well as home-schooled students.
You Could Help Us
In order for us to better prepare for our event, we hope to hear from you right away if you plan to take part in this competition. Text the following to the number below: Name, School, and an idea of the Category/Categories you plan to work in. Help with your project is also available over your winter break if needed. You can call or text to set up a time to meet:
Kim Lattimer-Reeder (740) 506-2198
Artwork Theme
The theme of this competition is “What I Dream of for My Future” and should be a visual depiction of where the student sees themself five to ten years after they graduate. If words are used in the artwork, they should be kept to a minimum.
Judging and Winners
- A panel of judges will review all entries and select a winner from each of the following categories:
- Fine Art (drawing and painting)
- Digital Art (computer generated art)
- 3D Art (stained glass, mosaic, ceramics)
- In addition to the winners for each category, one overall “Best of Show” winner will be selected.
- Prizes are as follows:
- $1500 in cash prizes will be awarded in three categories.
- ‘Best of Show’ will receive a $1000 award amount.
Judging Criteria
- Interpretation and clarity of theme
- Creativity and originality of theme
- Quality of artistic composition & design
- Overall impression of art
Accepted Mediums
Any of the following mediums or techniques may be used:
- Painting (watercolor, acrylic, gouache, oil, pastels, etc.)
- Drawing (graphite, charcoal, Conté crayon, colored pencil, markers, pen & ink, etc.)
- Original digital illustrations
- Three-dimensional pieces (stained glass, mosaic, ceramics)
Size Requirements
- Wall art is not to exceed 30″ x 30″, and must be FRAMED (under glass or stretched canvas), WIRED FOR HANGING and suitable for public display.
- Projects should not exceed 25 pounds in weight.
Multiple Entries
Up to two entries per student may be submitted, from one or multiple categories.
Submissions
Scroll to the bottom of this page, complete the on-line application and submit. Download a copy of the application, fill out and securely attach the form to your art before entering your project.
Deadline for Entries
All entries are to be delivered to the First United Methodist Church of London, 52 N. Main St, London, OH 43140. Dates for drop off as follows: January 8, 11am-3pm or January 9 & 10 (DEADLINE), 10am-12noon . Enter through the door off the back parking lot near the garage marked OFFICES/DELIVERIES. More signage will be posted inside of church.
Award Announcement
Awards will be announced and artwork will be displayed during the Young Artist Showcase / Kurt Lattimer Aspiring Artist Award which is held annually and sponsored by the Madison County Arts Council. This event begins at 3pm on Sunday, January 25, 2026 and will take place at First United Methodist Church of London, 52 N. Main St, London, OH 43140. A reception for all artists will follow the performance. All art entries for this contest will also be exhibited the month of February at London City Hall, 20 S. Walnut St, London, OH 43140. Students may pick up their art at City Hall on February 27, 2026, 8am-4pm. See Eve Breedlove (Exec Admin), Suite 100, to claim art/check-out art. Best of luck to all our competitors!
Application
To apply for the Kurt Lattimer Aspiring Artist Award, complete the application below. Don’t forget to download and complete a copy of the application (see below) to attach to your art. If you have questions, text or call Kim: (740) 506-2198.
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Click the button below, download the application, print, fill out and attach to your artwork before submission.
