Every year, Illinois students, grades K-12, are invited to participate in an annual Art Contest sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Board of Education. This exciting collaboration creates more visibility for young Illinois artists and showcases their talent while reinforcing the importance of the arts in the growth and development of all students.
Theme for 2026: America 250 - Reflections Through Art
Click here for this year's contest flyer.
We invite Illinois students across four entry levels (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12) to participate. After entries are received, a panel of seasoned judges evaluate artwork on creativity and general design before selecting the finalists and runners-up in each category. All winners and runners-up have their work displayed by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The winning pieces from each age category will be featured on a poster to celebrate the arts during Illinois Arts Education Week during the week of March 9-13, 2026.
2026 Contest
This year's theme is "America 250 - Reflections Through Art" The United States is turning 250! As we mark this historic milestone, we invite young artists to reflect on what America 250 means to them—not just in history books, but in their own lives, communities, and imaginations. What emotions or ideas come to mind? What stories do you want to tell? This is your chance to be bold, thoughtful, and honest. Through your art, help us explore the past, understand the present, and dream about the future. Let your creativity speak from the heart.
Winning pieces will be on display in the plaza of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum until May 8, 2026.
Winning Artwork from Previous Years
Beginning in 2019, the judging committee chose an overall winner for the contest. Their work is featured on the Illinois Art Education Week’s annual poster. From 2015-2018, the ALPLM hosted an independent art contest with winners in each age group category.
To learn more about the contest, be inspired, or see some really cool work created by Illinois youth, check out the art created by winners in previous years.
2019 Winners
2020 Winners
2021 Winners
2022 Winners
2023 Winners
2024 Winners
2025 Winners