About the Contest: In preparation for the AIDS 2008 conference in Mexico City, YAHAnet (Youth, the Arts, HIV and AIDS Network) is seeking original artworks created by youth to communicate their ideas about risk as it pertains to youth in their community. 

Studies show that despite universal knowledge of HIV and prevention methods, many people still engage in unsafe sex and drug use practices.

We are inviting youth to develop a work of art that reflects on the following question: 

If a person knows a practice or behaviour puts them at risk, why would they do it anyway?

 
Eligibility:  You may submit as many entries as you like to the following  3 categories: Visual Arts, Performance Arts, and Writing, one winner will be selected from each category. 

To submit an entry:

•  You must be between the ages of 12 and 30  
• Include your name, address, and e-mail with your entry
• Include Title and 150 word artist statement describing the message behind your work
• Images submitted by e-mail or on a disc must be JPG formatted.  For video and audio works max. 2- 3 min. Please include sample of lyrics for music.  Writings max. 300 words in English, French or Spanish.   

Method of Evaluation:  Each entry will be evaluated based on: 

• creativity and originality 
• ability to successfully depict a contemporary youth issue relating to risk
• technical merit of the piece
• relationship to HIV and AIDS
  

Winners: Winners will be announced at the AIDS 2008 conference in Mexico City. In addition to being presented at the conference. The first place winner in each category will be awarded 100$ and will be featured on the YAHAnet web tool. Second and third place winners will also be announced and featured.

Deadline:  All submissions should be e-mailed to yahanet@gmail.com or mailed/delivered to the following address by July 20, 2008. 

YAHAnet c/o Claudia Mitchell

Faculty of Education Rm 334

3700 McTavish Street

Montreal, Quebec H3A 1Y2

* All entries will be available for pick-up in September.*