International Kids' Owl Art Contest ~ Scholastic World

The International Owl Art Contest is a globally recognized competition that invites young artists to showcase their creativity through owl-themed artwork. What started as a small local coloring contest in 2004 during the Festival of Owls has now grown into a prestigious international event, attracting over 2,000 entries from dozens of countries every year.

If you love art and wildlife, this contest is a perfect opportunity to express your creativity!

📜 Contest History

The contest began as a way to engage local youth in owl conservation awareness. Over the years, it has expanded into a competitive international platform organized by the International Owl Center, encouraging participation from children worldwide.

👩‍🎨 Who Can Participate?

Open to children aged 18 years or younger
Participants from any country can enter
No entry fee

Age Categories:

0–5 years
6–9 years
10–14 years
15–18 years

⚠️ Important:
Artwork must be created entirely by the participant — no help from adults or AI tools is allowed.

🎨 Artwork Rules

To avoid disqualification, follow these guidelines carefully:

✔️ Allowed:

Must be a 2D artwork of an owl
Any drawing/painting medium (pencil, watercolor, etc.)
Digital art is allowed only if printed and mailed

❌ Not Allowed:

No use of AI-generated content
No plant/animal materials (e.g., feathers, seeds, fur)
No frames, mattes, or mounted canvas on wooden frames

💡 Tip: Use sturdy paper or backing to protect your artwork during shipping.

📦 Submission Guidelines

Only original artwork is accepted (no photocopies or email submissions)
Proper labeling is mandatory:
- Small label → front (bottom right corner)
- Large label → back (attached with tape)
Use:
- ✔️ Single-sided tape
- ❌ No glue, staples, or double-sided tape

📮 Mail your entries to:

Postal Service:
International Festival of Owls
PO Box 536
Houston, MN 55943
USA

Courier (DHL/UPS/FedEx):
International Owl Center
126 E Cedar St
Houston, MN 55943
USA

🏆 Judging Criteria

Entries are evaluated by professional artists based on:

Creativity and originality
Unique perspective
Message or storytelling
Skill level (age-appropriate)
Color usage and emotional impact
Design composition
Humor and innovation

🎁 Prizes & Recognition

🥇 1st, 2nd & 3rd prizes in each age category
Winners receive:
- Framed certificate with custom wax seal
- Email notification
All participants receive:
- Participation certificate (via email)

✨ Selected artworks may also be:

Displayed in exhibitions
Printed on merchandise (cards, T-shirts, etc.)
Featured during the Festival of Owls

📅 Important Dates

Start Date: August 15, 2025
Last Date to Submit: January 15, 2026
Result घोषणा: February 28, 2026

⚠️ Late entries will NOT be accepted under any circumstances.