The first contest is the Pennsylvania Game Commission's 2026 Working Together for Wildlife Art Contest, which invites artists to submit original artwork featuring barn owls. Entries must be received by May 2, and the selected artwork will be featured in the 2026 fine art print series, with the winning artist receiving $5,000 and 50 signed artist proofs. The contest is open to Pennsylvania residents, and all submissions must be sent electronically to rebawillia@pa.gov. Artists can enter multiple pieces, with a $50 nonrefundable entry fee for each submission (artists 18 and younger can enter for free). Further contest details can be found :https://www.pa.gov/.../barn-owl-featured-in-art-contest.html.

The second contest is the 2025 Lyme Disease Student Art Contest, which invites first through sixth-grade students across Pennsylvania to create a poster or video focusing on the theme "Protect. Check. Remove." This contest aims to raise awareness about Lyme disease and prevention, particularly regarding tick bites. Entries are due by March 14. Finalists will be invited to an award ceremony at the State Capitol in May, and the top winners will have their artwork featured in a calendar. More information on the contest can be found: https://www.pa.gov/.../vector.../tick-diseases/lyme-art.html.

Both contests offer valuable opportunities for individuals to engage with important environmental and public health issues while gaining recognition for their artistic talents. We encourage both artists and students to participate and help raise awareness in their communities.