Art contest seeks to “spark love of STEM in young people”

The competition for student artists aged 3-18 aims to inspire young people to use art to “explore the wonders of space and the exciting possibilities in science, mathematics, engineering and technology fields”.

Now in its 10th year, original artwork entries are submitted electronically by parents, teachers or guardians. Annually, the competition receives some 4,000 drawings, paintings, mixed media or digital works of art from across the world.

The new three-year partnership on the competition will continue to “spark a love of STEM in young people through the lens of space”, the partners said.

Space Foundation COO Shelli Brunswick said the organisation was “grateful and excited” to partner with the space-focused international asset management firm to “take the International Student Art Contest to its next level of worldwide impact”.

Callie from Hong Kong came first in the 5-6 Years Old category in 2020. Photo: Space Foundation

“Blending the arts, sciences and imagination opens up a wellspring of creativity for young people to explore how they see themselves in the global space ecosystem,” said Brunswick.

“Today’s young people are tomorrow’s innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders. With Noosphere’s support, the International Student Art Contest can celebrate students and inspire even more of them to reach for the stars.”

Chev Cedric from the Philippines won the space achievement award in 2020. Photo: Space Foundation

“By instilling younger generations with a love and understanding of space, STEM, humanity will be better equipped to tackle the challenges facing the Earth,” added Noosphere managing partner, Max Polyakov.

Selections of submitted art works are displayed at Space Foundation’s Discovery Center, at its annual Space Symposium, held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and online.

Timothy Fort from the Philippines was placed first in the 17-18 Years Old category in 2020. Photo: Space Foundation

Some 25 winners are crowned each year, with first, second and third place honours awarded for each of the eight age categories. From each of the finalists, one young artist will also receive the Space Foundation Achievement Award for their submission.

There is no cost for students to participate in the contest. Artwork must be submitted online by the student’s teacher, parent or legal guardian, age 18 or older. To learn more, visit Art.SpaceFoundation.org.