America at 250 Design Challenge

Sponsored by the Arlene Topal Creative Arts Fund in memory of Arlene Topal.

Artwork Prompt

Create an original artwork that represents a new symbol for America at 250 years.

Your symbol should capture what America means to you and reflect important ideas, values or stories from our history. You may draw inspiration from existing American symbols (like the flag, Liberty Bell, or bald eagle) or create something entirely new. Incorporate a piece of text (a motto, quote, or phrase about America) into your symbol or artwork.

Create a symbol that matters to you and could inspire others.

Design Challenge Resources

Introduce the challenge to your students with a set of resources, including:

  • Classroom Resource: Symbolizing America from 1776-2026
  • Primary Sources and Teacher Reference
  • Design Prompts
  • Scoring Rubric
background-graphic-for-stylingstudents doing arts and crafts

Awards

First Place

$250 gift card, artwork featured in America@250 Exhibit, and a certificate of achievement.

Second Place

$150 gift card, artwork featured in America@250 Exhibit, and a certificate of achievement.

Third Place

$50 gift card, artwork featured in America@250 Exhibit, and a certificate of achievement.

Guidelines

Submission Requirements

Open to students in grades 6-12. Your artwork should reflect respect for all people and communities, celebrating ideas and values that unite us.

All entries must be:

  • Be original work created entirely by the student (no AI tools allowed)
  • Respond directly to the contest prompt
  • Include a “Title” and “Artist Statement”

Questions to Consider:

  • What ideas, values, or stories are most important to highlight?
  • What feelings should your symbol inspire in others?
  • How can color, shape, and materials help tell your story?

Categories:

  • Drawing/Painting
  • Mixed Media (collage, layered materials, or creative combinations on a 2D surface

Artist Statement:

In 200-300 words, tell us the story of your artwork!

  • What your symbol represents and why.
  • An explanation of your choice of text.
  • Why it’s important for America’s 250th birthday and to you.
  • How you made it: colors, shapes, materials, and process.

Photo Tips:

  • Bright, even lighting (natural daylight is best)
  • Plain background (white, black, or neutral)
  • Show all edges of your artwork
  • Drawing/Painting: one straight-on photo (+ optional close-ups)
  • Mixed media: at least two angles + close-up if possible
  • File format: JPG or PNG; name files as LastName_FirstName_Title1

Judging Criteria

  • Creativity & originality of concept
  • Connection to theme
  • Artistic skill & craftsmanship
  • Effort and completeness of artist statement

 

 

 

QUESTIONS: Contact Yael Steiner, Sr. Director of Programs at yael@civicspirit.org.

America’s story is written not only in words, but in the symbols we create together. This challenge empowers young people to bring fresh meaning to the values that have guided our democracy for 250 years.

-Arlene Topal Creative Arts Fund

We are excited to see your submission.

civic spirit america 250 logo

America @ 250 Design Challenge Resources

Complete this form to access classroom resources for introducing the challenge in your school.

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