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2026 Capture Our Country Art Contest

The Hartford Public Library will host the "2026 Capture Our Country Art Contest" to celebrate America's 250th Anniversary. This contest will run from April 1, 2026 - May 29, 2026. All entries will be show at the Hartford Strawberry Festival on June 12 - 13, 2026

Hartford Public Library "2026 Capture Our Country Art Contest" 

What part of America tells your story? As we approach our nation's 250th birthday, the Hartford Public Library invites you to showcase the locations that define the American experience. From the skyline of a bustling city to the quiet beauty of a local park or a historic landmark, we want to see your interpretation of the "Places of America."

To ensure a welcoming celebration for everyone, please focus your work on landscapes, locations, and geography. Pick up your pencils, paints, pastels, crayons, markers, and more—only physical, non-digital artwork will be accepted!

Contest Rules

  • Open to all Hartford residents.
  • Artwork will be judged in the following age groups: 0-5, 6-11, 12-17, and 18 plus.
  • Deadline: May 29, 2026
  • Artwork must be no larger than 11 x 14 inches and flat (not folded). Folded entries will not be judged.
  • The library reserves the right to decline entries that do not adhere to the theme of American locations or that include partisan political content.
  • You must submit a brief written Artist’s Statement with your entry that describes how the theme relates to your creation.
  • Fully complete and securely attach the Authorization Forms on the back of your entry. Artist’s Statements and Authorization Form must be included with each entry, or your work will be disqualified.
  • All entries must be the artist’s original work and not include copyrighted images or AI-generated content.
  • If your entry includes glitter, it must be static and securely adhered to the piece.
  • If you choose to use chalk or pencil, please make sure your work is able to be reproduced and encase it in a sleeve to prevent smearing.
  • If your artwork is abstract, please mark the TOP with an “X” on the back.
  • Each artist may only submit one entry. Artwork can be picked up after July 4, 2026.
  • First, second & third place ribbons will be awarded in each age group. Gift certificates will be awarded in for each place and each age group.
  • Artwork will be judged and displayed during the Hartford Strawberry Festival Celebrates America 250, June 12 and 13, 2026.

Entries can be delivered by hand or mailed to: Capture Our Country! The "Places of America 250" Art Contest, c/o Hartford Public Library, PO Box 8, Hartford, MI 49057

You can find the form here: "2026 HPL Capture Our Country Art Contest Form"