My Country, My Story: A Meaningful Art & Writing Opportunity for Students

My Country, My Story: A Meaningful Art & Writing Opportunity for Students

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday on July 4, the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) has launched a nationwide art and writing contest titled "My Country, My Story."

Open to students from kindergarten through college, as well as members of the public, this contest encourages participants to reflect on what America means to them through both words and art. Each submission includes a 150-word message and a piece of traditional, non-digital artwork such as a drawing, painting, or mixed-media piece.

What I find especially inspiring about this contest is its focus on personal storytelling. Rather than simply looking back at history, students are invited to explore themes of freedom, opportunity, service, leadership, and community through their own experiences and perspectives.

Art has always been a powerful way for young people to express ideas that are difficult to put into words. Whether inspired by family traditions, cultural heritage, everyday life, or dreams for the future, each artwork can become a unique reflection of the artist's connection to this country.
​
Over the coming weeks, I look forward to helping students brainstorm ideas and develop meaningful artwork around the theme "My Country, My Story." As America reaches this historic milestone, it is a wonderful opportunity for young artists to share their voices and tell their own stories through art.

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday through art and storytelling. Learn about the “My Country, My Story” national art and writing contest and inspire young artists to share their unique perspectives.

Accepted forms of artwork include drawings (pencil, charcoal or ink), paintings (watercolor, oil or acrylic) and mixed media (collages or prints).

Students from kindergarten through college are invited to participate, and submissions will be evaluated in six age groups to ensure fairness. A seventh category opens the contest to the public.

Submissions must include the entrant’s full name, grade level or category and phone number or email address.

They can be sent by email to [email protected].

Winning entries will be recognized with a gift card and certificate of recognition. They also will be recognized during AUSA’s Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., in October.
​
For more information, click here.

This contest will open on February 23, 2026, and the submission period will close on August 8, 2026. Judging will follow, and winners will be officially announced by October 1, 2026.
 ​