The world is a vibrant tapestry of shapes, colors, and textures, where art can be discovered in the most unexpected places. By taking a moment to truly observe the details around us, we unlock new perspectives and experiences, each unique to how we engage our senses with the world. As you embark on your creative journey, we invite you to explore the interplay of textures and forms, crafting a piece that either evokes a sense of touch or brings it to life through its design.
Thank you for all the entries and congratulations to the winners of the poster contest for the 43rd annual Arts Education Week, which is set for March 10-14, 2025.
Illinois Arts Education Week 2025 was sponsored by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in cooperation with the Governor's Office.
We are pleased to announce and congratulate the winners of the 2024 Illinois Arts Education Week contest.
High School Division:
9-12 Winner
Steven
Age: 15 Grade: 10th
“My graphite pencil work is entitled “Forever Moment.” I depict myself and my friend, who is also my cross-country teammate. In the drawing, my arms are wrapped over his shoulders as he carries me piggyback-style. It captures the precious lightheartedness of our runs together. It is not just about the physical touch but rather a symbol of a deeper emotional connection. You can see it in our radiant smiles.
We can up lift each other through our touch. We can challenge each other, push each other, and comfort each other when we need it the most.
When I run along the Chicago Lakefront, I feel more alive than ever. I can feel the harsh sunlight that strikes us and the soft creases of our jackets. I’m surrounded by my friends who match each of my strides. I take it all in. These small sensory details are truly forever moments.”
Middle School Division:
6-8 Winner
Alaina
Age: 13 Grade: 8th
“As my car pulls up in the rocky driveway of my great grandpa’s farm, I can see the vibrant colors and fun that awaits. From riding around the farm on a Kubota side-by-side, to seeing the vast green woods, watching the cows and donkeys roam the pasture, and fishing under a shady tree at one of his ponds. What more could I ask for as my great grandpa lifts me off my feet to give me a big hug.”
Elementary School Division:
3-5 Winner
Uthman
Age: 10 Grade: 4th
“The world is like a big jigsaw puzzle, and everyone helps put it together. In my art, I made a puzzle of the world, but I left one piece missing. That piece is yours and mine because we each have a part to play in making the world better. There are crayons on the table in my picture because they show the choices we get to make in life. Just like crayons, we get to decide what colors we want to add to the world. I used textures in my art to show that life is full of different feelings and experiences. I outlined the puzzle with hot glue to make it pop, and I used melted crayons to show how we can bring a “touch of art” and our own special mark to the world. My art reminds us that when we touch and look closely at the world around us, we can see how each small piece is important in shaping our world.”
Early Learning School Division:
K-2 Winner
George
Age: 6 Grade: Kindergarten
“I like to touch water and swim. My favorite colors are green and purple.”
