All students in grades K-12 across the Americas (North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean) are invited to participate in the annual Student Art Contest sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA), and the Inter-American Committee on Ports of the Organization of American States (CIP-OAS).
"Even if you've never entered an art contest, I hope you'll consider participating," said Shawntell Williams, the contest's program manager. "You'll be part of a national effort to celebrate our oceans and waterways, while learning about the people who transport the things you use every day, from clothes to cars to toothbrushes. No art experience necessary, just bring your creativity and imagination!"
The theme for this year’s contest is “Seafarers: At the Core of Shipping’s Future," which is also the theme for the International Maritime Organization’s 2021 World Maritime Day.
Shipping via waterways transports about 90% of the items people use every day: clothes, cars, furniture, toothbrushes, phones and computers. Global trade relies on shipping, which relies on personnel who work on ships, known as seafarers. The 2020 global pandemic, COVID-19 has brought into focus the important role of seafarers in the maritime industry. Many seafarers are facing extended time at sea due to COVID-19 related restrictions some, enduring months apart from their families. In 2021, the focus on the well-being of seafarers is forefront in the safe delivery of the world’s goods and energy.
All students in grade K-12, including the family of Coast Guard members, are eligible to participate in the art contest. Additionally, students living outside of the Americas and the Caribbean who have one or more parent on active duty in the Coast Guard may also participate.
Enter by March 31 at: https://namepa.submittable.com/submit/181404/seafarers-at-the-core-of-shippings-future.
Twelve finalists, six from grades K-5 and six from grades 6-12, will be chosen from the entries. Each finalist will be required to submit their original artwork when notified of their selection.
The winning artwork will be retained and featured on the USCG, NAMEPA and CIP-OAS websites as well as published in a 12-month calendar. The calendar will be printed in English and Spanish.
All finalists will receive a certificate and a calendar. Two grand-prize artists (one from each grade category) will receive a cash prize from NAMEPA and a USCG-themed package.
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