A panel of artists, educators, and scientists will evaluate submissions for the Science Without Borders® Challenge based on the quality of the artwork, originality, and adherence to the theme. The judges will use a grading rubric to guide their decisions.
When creating your artwork, you should think about these questions:
- Does your artwork reflect that you understand the theme of the contest?
- Does your artist’s statement also show that you understand the contest theme?
- Does your piece show that you have a good understanding of art and that you use these art elements, such as line, shape, form, value, composition, and color, to effectively portray the theme?
- Is your artwork original, inventive, and shows off your individual style?
- Is your artwork neat? Are there tears, smudges, and/or smear marks?
- Does your artwork invoke emotion for your viewers? Is it striking and memorable?
For tips on creating winning artwork, see Tips for Success.
Timeline
Every year, we receive thousands of submissions from around the world. Judging such a large number of entries takes time. Each round of judging typically takes several weeks. We announce which pieces of artwork made it through each round of the process on our website, social media, and newsletter. So be sure to sign up for our newsletter and follow us online to be the first to know.
Semi-Finalists
Our first major announcement is the release of the semi-finalists. Typically, we announce the semi-finalists in each age group separately and about one week apart.
Artists who are selected as semi-finalists are required to physically mail in their artwork to be eligible to win. The artist, their parents or guardian, and their teacher will be notified by email after the announcement with information on where to send their artwork. Due to the international nature of the contest and to reduce shipping costs, we allow ample time for applicants to send their artwork in. Once the artwork is received, judges take time to evaluate each piece and determine which are selected as finalists. This process takes several weeks.
Please note that semi-finalists’ physical artwork will not be returned, as it becomes part of our efforts to raise awareness about ocean conservation. We showcase these pieces in art exhibits, conservation conferences, workshops, and events to inspire others and amplify important messages about protecting our oceans.
Finalists
Finalists in each age group are announced several weeks later. Separate announcements will be made for finalists in the 11-14 year old age group and the 15-19 year old age group. These announcements are typically about one week apart.
People’s Choice
While the judges are evaluating all the finalists, we invite people from around the world to let us know which artwork is their favorite. Shortly after the finalist galleries are posted on Facebook, we open voting for the People’s Choice award. The artwork in each age group that receives the most likes by the deadline will be crowned the People’s Choice winner. We will notify all the finalists, as well as their parents and teachers, of the rules for the People’s Choice prize and strongly encourage their schools and communities to get involved in the voting process. Please be aware that this process is completely separate from the official judging process and does not in any way influence the selection of the winners. Because the judging process is separate, it is possible for a piece of artwork to win both the People’s Choice prize as well as 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place in the contest.
Winners
The first, second, and third-place winners in each age group are typically announced a week or two after the People’s Choice winner. The winners will be contacted by email to coordinate the official announcement with their schools and community.
Certificates
Certificates will be emailed to all eligible participants several weeks after the winners are announced. Please be aware that if the artwork you submitted did not meet any of the necessary qualifications – such as being digitally created or not adhering to this year’s theme – you will not be eligible to receive a certificate. Thank you for your patience.