Preparing for an art contest is easy!

Preparing for an art contest is easy!

​There are many art contests that children can participate in.
However, some of you may be at a loss as to “what to prepare and how to prepare.”
Today, I will introduce a 5-step preparation guide that will help you prepare for a contest in a fun and systematic way! 😊

(The steps below are the methods I often use in my actual classes and personal work.)

1️⃣ Explore the Contest Timeline

First, check the overall schedule and topics.
Look through the contest information page and choose a topic that interests you.
A topic that you like and can express well is better than a topic that is too difficult or uninteresting!

2️⃣ Go to the Contest Page

Read the contest page you have chosen carefully.
Check the topic description, work specifications, submission deadline, and format (e.g. digital, hand-made, etc.) carefully.
If you know the criteria from the beginning, you will not have to worry about making changes in the middle.

3️⃣ Do a Little Research

Be sure to check out previous winning works. It is also very helpful to read the commonalities and judging criteria of past award winners on the official website, posters, YouTube, etc.
You can get a feel for what styles are popular and what messages are conveyed!

4️⃣ Create a Visual Collage

Create a visual collage that concretizes your ideas!
Gather magazines, internet images, color samples, textures, etc. and paste them onto one sheet.
Or you can express it through a drawing.
This process is like a compass that gives you direction. It is the best way to get rid of feeling lost!

5️⃣ Sketch & Reflect

Now, let's start sketching in earnest and think about the meaning of the work.
Organize in advance what materials you will use and what expression techniques you will use.
And if you briefly organize the story or emotion you want to convey in the work,
it will also help with the **Artist Statement**.

 Final Tips!

A contest is not simply a 'competition'.
It is an opportunity to express your thoughts and expand your creativity. If you follow these 5 steps, the contest will feel like a fun journey rather than a scary one!