Note: Submissions closed on March 1. Stay tuned for news about contest winners and ways to get involved.
We’re excited to invite Texas youth and adults of all ages to submit original work that explores their relationship with mental health.
The annual Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest is organized by Texas System of Care (TxSOC), which works in collaboration with the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health (TIEMH) and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
Did you know there were over 650 submissions last year? Anyone can submit their work between December 1, 2023 and March 1, 2024.
Here are a few key points about the contest that you should know about.
What’s the goal of the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest?
Our team wants to raise awareness of mental health experiences and challenge the stigma of mental health by having open discussions with the Texas community.
“Despite the rise in mental health issues within our community, this topic continues to be overlooked,” said Sherry Rumsey, MEd, LPC, project director for TxSOC. “Our art contest serves as a reminder to Texans that their mental health is important and they’re not alone. We’re excited to see everyone’s unique perspectives and experiences reflected in their work.”
Down to the details: Contest theme, age groups, and more
Participants can enter by submitting original artwork, writing, or photography that reflects the theme: “Why Does Mental Health Matter to You?”
Original artwork: Combines drawing, pictures, and/or words to express the contest theme.
Writing: Story, essay, or poem no longer than 300 words based on the contest theme.
Photography: Original photo that expresses the contest theme.
*A note about AI art: Our team will not accept submissions that are created using generative AI tools. We’ll be reviewing pieces in all categories to ensure that they comply with our guidelines.
Age groups
Artists can enter one of four age groups:
- Elementary school (Pre-K through grade 5)
- Middle school (Grades 6-8)
- High school (Grades 9-12)
- Adult (Ages 18 and up)
An inspiring piece from 2023’s art contest
Caden N., whose work “Don’t Live in a Bubble” earned first place in the elementary photography category, highlighted the importance of self-acceptance and not allowing others to define who you are as a person.
“I have Tourette’s, but it doesn’t make up the full me,” Caden shared. “We are all so much more than the things others don’t like about us. Don’t live in the bubble that others put you in.”
Perks & prizes
Winners will receive special prizes and exposure for their work, including having their art recognized in public galleries and published on contest holders’ official websites.
Learn more about the arts contest
Still have questions? Check out the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest site for more information about rules, submitting artwork, past winners, and more.
Be sure to share the news with your network! We can’t wait to see all the creative submissions from folks across Texas.
Leave a Reply