Teen Art Contest

October 12–November 16, 2026

Does art inspire you? Do you create art that empowers others? Enter your favorite original art piece in the Milwaukee Public Library’s Teen Art Contest, sponsored by the Teen Advisory Board, between October 12–November 16, 2026.

Return this form with your entry to any Milwaukee Public Library location between October 12–November 16, 2026.

Age categories are: 13-14, 15-16, and 17-18.

All entries must be picked up by Friday, December 11, 2026, at the Martin Luther King Branch (2901 N. MLK Jr. Dr.).

Community Choice Award Prizes in each Age Category:

Age 13-14 Award: $100 gift card for Blick Art Materials
Age 15-16 Award: $100 gift card for Blick Art Materials
Age 17-18 Award: $100 gift card for Blick Art Materials
Teen Advisory Board Member Choice Award: $100 gift card for Blick Art Materials

Teen Art Gallery Night

All eligible works submitted from the contest will be on display during our Teen Art Gallery Night. All community members are welcome to view the art and vote for the Community Choice Awards.

Monday, November 23, 5 - 7 p.m.
Martin Luther King Branch

Rules & Regulations:

Must be between 13 and 18 years of age to participate. Age categories are: 13-14, 15-16, and 17-18.
Limit of one entry per person. Entries must be original works created without the use of AI tools to generate, enhance, extend, or manipulate artwork.
Entries smaller than 11” x 11” can be submitted to any MPL branch.
Entries larger than 11” x 11” must be submitted to the MPL - King Branch.
Entries can include still-life visual art such as paintings, drawings, sculptures, graphic design, and photography.
All entries must include a permission form signed by a parent/guardian.
Submissions will be available for pick-up after the Teen Art Gallery Night.
Participants must be live or go to school in the City of Milwaukee.
Individuals can win one prize only in this contest.
All entries must be picked up by Friday, December 11, 2026, at the Martin Luther King Branch (2901 N. MLK Jr. Dr.).

Presented in partnership with members from the Milwaukee Public Library’s
Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Funded by the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation.