Each year, pre-K through grade 12 students create and submit original works of art in response to a student-created theme selected through the annual Reflections Theme Search Contest.

Based on state PTA rules and guidelines, art is submitted and may advance from the local PTA level up through district/region/council and state PTA competitions to the national level for awards and recognition opportunities.

Students may submit one (1) entry per category. However, a student may submit entries in multiple categories.

You are required to write a description of your artwork between 10 and 100 words. The judges will use your statement to understand what you are trying to say through your art. Take your time and put some effort into this step.

There are three areas of critique:

1.  (40 pts) Interpretation of the Theme – How closely the piece relates to the theme based on the work and the artist statement.

2. (30 pts) Creativity – How creative and original is the piece

3. (30 pts) Artistic Technique – The level of skill demonstrated

Local Level Review – A  panel at the local level first reviews all student submissions. The top three entries in each category are advanced to State Competition.

State Level Review – State PTAs are able, but not required, to submit 30 entries in total to the national level for review - one entry per arts category, per division.

National Level Review – Student entries submitted to the national level go through two rounds of review by esteemed arts professionals across the country. Over 200 students are recognized for their achievements in the arts and their works are exhibited throughout the year. Top national-level winners are provided prizes and scholarships and their works are showcased and exhibited.