A Tapestry of Cultures and the Threads That Connect Us
Sister Cities International 2027 YAAS Theme
young artists & authors showcase 2027
Every culture, community, and individual contributes a unique thread to the tapestry of our interconnected world. While our traditions, languages, histories, and perspectives may differ, each enriches the whole, creating stronger communities built on mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration.
This year’s theme invites young artists and authors to reflect on the relationships that connect people across cultures and borders. Through friendship, cultural exchange, and shared experiences, we weave a future of peace—one shaped by curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to understanding one another. Participants are encouraged to explore how people-to-people connections can bridge differences, celebrate diversity, and inspire positive change within their communities and beyond.
The tapestry is a powerful metaphor for Sister Cities International’s mission of building peace through citizen diplomacy and cultural exchange. Just as every thread contributes to the strength and beauty of a tapestry, every individual has the ability to strengthen the bonds that unite communities around the world. Through art, photography, music, poetry, and writing, participants are invited to interpret the threads that connect us and demonstrate how creativity can foster dialogue, deepen understanding, and contribute to a more peaceful and connected future.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE TO BE ANNOUNCED.
For more information, email yaas2026.chandlerirish@gmail.com.
JUDGING CRITERIA & AGE CATEGORIES
Open to artists, writers, photographers, and musicians aged 12–18, the Showcase provides a unique platform to explore how creativity can unite communities, celebrate shared humanity, and envision a better future. Submissions are accepted across various mediums, including visual art, essays, poetry, photography, and music. Winning entries will be featured across Sister Cities International’s global network, inspiring people and partnerships around the world.
All submissions will be judged anonymously by a panel of volunteer judge(s). Judges will review each submission carefully and follow the below criteria:
- Interpretation of the theme
- Originality and creativity
- Technical skill
- Overall impact
Age Categories: This year, we are hosting two separate competitions based on age groups. Applicants aged 12-14 will compete in one Showcase, while those aged 15-18 will compete in another. In each age group and each art medium, there will be a first, second, and third place winner.
Guidelines
Classic Art
Classic Art
Classic Art
Media accepted includes but is not limited to oil, acrylic, watercolor, charcoal, and colored pencils.
Photograph of the artwork must be submitted in the application in a .jpg or .png format.
Digital Art
Classic Art
Classic Art
Submissions must have a minimum of 1350x1080 px.
Moving art pieces will not be accepted.
Photograph of the artwork must be submitted in the application in a .jpg or .png format.
Essay
Classic Art
Poetry
Essay submissions can be creative writing, anecdotes, and other written worlds following the content guidelines.
Submissions must be written in English.
Essays must not not exceed 500 words.
Writing must be submitted in the application in a .pdf or .doc format.
Poetry
Photography
Poetry
Submissions must be written in English.
Poetry must not exceed 200 words.
Students must upload their document in either a .pdf or .doc format.
Photography
Photography
Photography
Limited digital manipulation is allowed for the photographers showcase. Edits include but are not limited to filters, lighting changes, color corrections, and cropping. However, adding or removing key elements of the photo is not allowed. Please note that heavy edits change the category of the submission. If that is the case, please consider submitting your artwork under the digital art category.
Only two-dimensional (2-D) artwork will be accepted.
Photograph must be submitted in the application in a .jpg or .png format.