This year’s theme invites young artists and authors to raise their voices during a historic moment as the United States celebrates 250 years since its founding, and Sister Cities International honors 70 years of building global friendships and cultural understanding. It reflects the ongoing journey from the country’s founding ideals toward a more interconnected, peaceful world.
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.
By participating in this inspiring competition, young creators will have the opportunity to share their vision of a world where today’s voices shape tomorrow’s global community. Winning entries will be featured across Sister Cities International’s global network, inspiring people and partnerships around the world.
Please print clearly in English and enclose this form with the Entry.
All submissions will be judged anonymously by a panel of volunteer judge(s). Judges will review each submission carefully and follow the below criteria:
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.
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.
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 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.
Submissions must be written in English.
Poetry must not exceed 200 words.
Students must upload their document in either a .pdf or .doc format.
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.