These are basic guidelines that all Reflections entries must meet to be eligible on the national level. Additional state and/or local program requirements may apply.

Each entry must be new artwork inspired by the current year’s theme: "I Belong!" are accepted.

• Theme-Inspired: Engage with the theme and create inspired artwork. This is critical to success in Reflections.

• New Artwork: Do not “recycle” artwork by submitting a piece created for other purposes (e.g., homework not related to Reflections; art used in another competition).  

Each entry must be the original work of one student only.

• Individual Originality: Reflections is designed to encourage and recognize individual creativity, artistic assistance from friends, family and/or teachers is not allowed.

• No Group Submissions: Only one student will be awarded for each entry.

• Artwork Details: Titles or artist statements must be the student’s own words and interpretations of the theme.

• Creative Choices: Decisions in the creative process must be made and/or directed by the student. If support is required, it should be limited and appropriate to the student’s grade and needs.

Each entry must contain a title and an artist statement.

• Word Count: Artists statement must include at least 10 words and not exceed 100 words.

• Be Creative and Unique: Each entry submitted in Reflections must have a unique title and artist statement specific to that submission. Learn more about crafting a title and artist statement in the section below.

Each entry using digital technology/software in creation process must consider the following:

• Enhance: Technology/software may be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. 

• Original Use: Technology/software may not be use to provide the primary design and/or concept.

• Use Description: Entrants must use the “Additional Details” field on their entry form to briefly describe the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

Creating Your Title and Artist Statement

In Reflections, judges focus on how well you use your artistic vision and process to portray the theme and your unique interpretation, so the most successful entries have:

• A creative title that highlights your artwork and theme.

• An artist statement that explains your artwork, your take on the theme, your creative process and key elements of your piece.
    

While creativity is important with titles and artist statements, there are certain requirements for Reflections entries to keep in mind when creating your title and artist statement:

• Each entry must have a unique title and artist statement. Don't reuse either for multiple entries.

• Statements should be between 10 and 100 words.

• Titles can be inspired by the theme, but should not copy the theme.

• Titles and statements must reflect the student's age and/or support needs. Any guidance provided by an adult (e.g., teacher, parent, guardian) should be minimal and non-artistic.
    

2025-2026 Reflections Theme: I Belong!

Learn more about the theme and find art-making activities to inspire your Reflections entry.

Tips and Tricks to Express Your Creative Vision

Your title and artist statement help judges and viewers understand your artwork and its connection to the theme. They act as your voice, explaining your inspiration and creative expression. Learn more about and find ideas to help create your own high-quality titles and artist statements in the dropdown menus. 

Understanding Reflections Artist Statement

While a title is general and means to peak a viewer’s interest, but an artist statement should provide more complete context and descriptions for your inspiration behind the piece, creative process in crafting the piece and your interpretation of the Reflections theme.

Your artist statement should describe your artwork and prioritize details related to the Reflections theme or the student's interpretation. Consider the following:

• Explain your artwork: Describe how specific parts or elements relate to the Reflections theme or your interpretation.

• Share your decisions: Explain why you made certain choices to connect your piece to the theme.

• Highlight key elements: Talk about metaphors, sequences or patterns that are important to the theme.

• Describe personal connections: Share any personal experiences that inspired your interpretation of the theme.

Tips and Tricks to Create Your Own

If struggling to create your artist statement, consider these suggestions:

• Think about this: What questions might a viewer have about your artwork? How would you answer them?

• Consider your goals: What do you hope people feel or think when they see your art? What actions do you want them to take?

• Reflect on influences: Are there any cultural or traditional elements in your piece? How would your artwork be different without them?

• Describe your process: What steps did you take to create your artwork? Which parts were the most challenging or rewarding?

• Imagine you're the viewer: Pretend you're not the artist. How would you describe the piece? What do you like, dislike or find confusing?

• Talk it out: Describe your artwork and interpretation of the theme to a friend, teacher or family member. Record the conversation or take notes.

• Detail your artwork: Write a detailed description of your piece, including materials, subjects and your favorite parts.

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