Creative Expression Competition

Competition Guidelines

• No names on the front of writing or visual entries. 
• Writing | Essay
  • Entries are limited to one page.
  • Eligible grade-level categories: K-3, 4-8, 9-12
• Visual | Photography, painting, sketch, or other visual art
  • Artwork size cannot exceed 8.5 x 11.
    • If the artwork is larger than 8.5 x 11, the art will not be able to be displayed in the libraries during December.
  • Horizontal orientation is preferred.
  • Eligible grade level categories: K-3, 4-8, 9-12

A student may submit an entry for both the writing and visual arts category, but only one entry per person for each category.

Due to the volume of artwork we receive, we are unable to return any of the submitted art or essays.

Judging Criteria

• Writing: Readability, reflection of theme, use of writer’s understanding of cultural experiences
• Visual: Composition, presentation, technique, and subject.

All material presented must be deemed appropriate by judges. All entries that do not meet contest guidelines may be subject to disqualification.

All entries will be displayed at one of the Chandler Public Libraries for the month of December and Winners will be notified no later than Jan. 6 and will be invited to receive their small prize on stage at the 30th Annual Chandler Multicultural Festival on Saturday, Jan. 18., 2025 at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park: Stage Plaza. The winners of each category will have their artwork displayed at the Multicultural Festival.

Due to the high number of entries we receive, we are unable to return the artwork to the students. The winning artwork will be showcased here, the Chandler Unified School District website, and will be shared on social media.

Entries can be dropped off at the following locations and entry forms are available.

• Chandler City Hall: 175 S. Arizona Ave. 85226
• Basha Library: 5990 S. Val Vista Drive 85249
• Downtown Library: 22 S. Delaware St. 85225
• Hamilton Library: 3700 S. Arizona Ave. 85248
• Sunset Library: 4930 W. Ray Road 85226

Library hours and directions

Entries will be accepted Sept. 3 to Nov. 1.

Please include the Entry Form with your submission. Entry forms are also available at all drop-off locations.

Art and Writing will be judged by city staff, community partners and Chandler residents.