The 2024-25 Reflections Theme is
"Accepting Imperfection"
Submission Deadline: Oct 28th, 2024 Contact: reflections.at.discovery@gmail.com
Reflections is a National PTA arts competition that provides an opportunity for students to use their creative talents. If your child loves art or have a creative flair then they will enjoy entering an artwork in this year's Reflections program.
Students can submit their completed works of art in one or all of the available arts categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, Visual Arts.
Entries will be judged on creative ability and interpretation of the theme. Each category has different entry rules. Please read them carefully before submitting.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE
October 28th 2024
Submission guidelines
Download the PTA Reflections Entry form HERE
Fill out the form and scan it as pdf document.
Upload your scanned entry form along with artwork photo/video of your entry here.
Please keep your original work safe because we would require a physical submission in accordance to the submissions guidelines outlined in the rules below. Drop-off location will be informed later.
ATTENTION PARENTS:
Failure to read and follow the submission guidelines and email instructions will lead to amazing art created by your student to be rejected.
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DO NOT HAVE THE STUDENT NAME ON THE ART IN LETTER, AUDIO OR VIDEO. IT HELPS PRESERVE ANONYMITY WHILE JUDGING.
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PLEASE REFRAIN FROM USING AI FOR IDEAS AND ARTIST STATEMENTS. AUTHENTIC SELF EXPRESSION IS VALUED OVER COMPETITIVE EDGE.
Submission categories and requirements
For all entries-
Student entry forms are completed and signed by both parent/guardian AND student.
Original signed student entry forms are attached to each entry outside any wrapping.
Title and artist statement (100 words or less) is completed.
For more category specific submission guidelines refer below.
The detailed guidelines are also available in spanish HERE under Student Entry Packets.
Literature (click for guidelines)
Works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, prose, drama, short stories and lyrics.
Submission requirements can be checked [here ]
Here is the submission checklist
Submit the original, typed or handwritten literature document and one copy in a re-closable manila envelope.
Entries must be on 8.5 inch by 11-inch paper
Entries must be single sided and include page numbers (if applicable).
Entries must not exceed 2,000 words.
Entries may be illustrated, but will be judged on the written content. Graphic novels are acceptable.
Mounted or bound entries are not accepted (no staples).
Label back of last page of entries with student name, title, category, division, PTA name and state ID number.
Original signed and completed student entry forms should be securely affixed to the front of the re-closable
manila envelope in a sheet protector or plastic sleeve. DO NOT use resealable bags (i.e. Ziplocs).
Labeling and wrapping (image below)
Music Composition (click for guidelines)
Original musical composition, with or without words.
Submission requirements can be checked [ here ].
Here is the submission checklist:
Accepted audio file formats include: MP3, WMA, WAV, ACC, and FLAC.
Audio recording must not exceed five (5) minutes in length and 1GB (one gigabyte) in file size.
Submit one (1) USB drive recording of the composition in a re-closable manila envelope.
Submit one (1) copy of music scores and lyrics (middle and high school) electronically on USB drive (PDF) or
printed in same re-closable manila envelope. USBs may not be returned.
Label USB drive with student name, title of artwork, category, division, PTA name and state ID number.
Original signed and completed student entry forms should be securely affixed to the front of the re-closable
manila envelope in a sheet protector or plastic sleeve. DO NOT use resealable bags (i.e. Ziplocs).
Photography (click for guidelines)
Color or black and white, included techniques: photogram, negative sandwich, and multiple exposure.
Submission requirements can be checked [ here ]
Here is the submission checklist:
Photography may not exceed 8 inches by 10 and may not exceed 11 inches by 14 inches when including a mat, or exceed 1/2 inch in thickness.
Check visual arts vs. photography: art with added graphics/lettering over the images, collages, etc. must be entered as Visual Arts.
Entries should be mounted on foam core, sturdy cardboard, mat board, or some other rigid material.
Label back of entries with student name, title, category, division, PTA name and state ID number.
Mark proper orientation on back of entry.
Original signed and completed student entry forms must be securely affixed to the back of entry in a sheet protector or plastic sleeve, outside any wrapping. Form must be accessible.
Visual arts (click for guidelines)
Drawing, painting in tempera, oil, acrylic, watercolor & t-shirt paints, computer generated art, two-dimensional collage, printmaking, needlework & leather tooling.
Submission requirements can be checked [ here ]
Here is the submission checklist:
Entries may be created on paper, canvas board, cardboard, hot or cold pressboard, or cut canvas.
Entries should be mounted on foam core, sturdy cardboard, mat board, or some other rigid material.
Submitted artwork may not exceed 24 inches by 30 inches, including a mat, or exceed 1/2 inch in thickness.
No material (fabric, string, noodles, beans, beads, etc.) may move freely off the surface of a work.
Submit NO wood, metal, plastic, glass, stretched canvas or framed canvas.
Take three (3) photos of 3D entries and mount photos on same materials and size as 2D artwork. (Ensure there is good light and nothing behind 3D artwork when taking photos. Place on a contrasting surface.)
Label back of entries with student name, title of artwork, category, division, PTA name and state ID number.
Mark proper orientation on back of entry.
Original signed and completed student entry forms must be securely affixed to the back of entry in a sheet protector or plastic sleeve, outside any wrapping. Form must be accessible.
It is highly suggested to protect entries with transparent cellophane wrap or sleeve designed for artwork. DO NOT laminate or use plastic food wrap.
Labeling and wrapping (image below)
Film/Video (click for guidelines)
Original works, with or without sound, of animation, narrative, documentary, experimental or music video/film.
Submission requirements can be checked [ here ]
Here is the submission checklist:
Accepted video file formats include: AVI, MOV, MP4, WMV, FLV.
Video file must not exceed five (5) minutes in length and 1GB (one gigabyte) in file size.
Use of background music must be cited on the student entry form.
Each entry must be the original work of one student only.
Submit one (1) USB drive with the recorded performance saved as a file in a re-closable manila envelope.
Label USB drive with student name, title of artwork, category, division, PTA name and state ID number.
Original signed and completed student entry forms should be securely affixed to the front of the re-closable manila envelope in a sheet protector or plastic sleeve. DO NOT use resealable bags (i.e. Ziplocs).
CHOREOGRAPHY/DANCE (CLICK FOR GUIDELINES)
Originally choreographed dance composition.
Submission requirements can be checked [ here ]
Here is the submission checklist:
Accepted video file formats include: AVI, MOV, MP4, WMV, FLV.
Video file must not exceed five (5) minutes in length and 1GB (one gigabyte) in file size.
Use of background music must be cited on the student entry form.
Each entry must be the original work of one student only.
Submit one (1) USB drive with the recorded performance saved as a file in a re-closable manila envelope.
Label USB drive with student name, title of artwork, category, division, PTA name and state ID number.
Original signed and completed student entry forms should be securely affixed to the front of the re-closable manila envelope in a sheet protector or plastic sleeve. DO NOT use resealable bags (i.e. Ziplocs).
Labeling and wrapping (image below)
ACCESSIBLE ARTIST (CLICK FOR GUIDELINES)
The National PTA Special Artist Division is an option for students with disabilities who receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504 to have the opportunity and accommodations they may need in order to participate fully in the program. The Special Artist Division offers modified rules and guidelines to ensure that every student has the chance to be part of the National PTA Reflections program.
Submission guidelines can be checked [ here ]
How to enter:
Students who identify as having a disability have two ways to enter the National PTA Reflections Program. All students may enter in only one division. Student Entry Form requires parent/legal guardian signatures.
Option 1. Enter in Grade-Level Divisions: Regardless of age, students with special needs may enter in the grade division most closely aligned to their functional abilities. Students may not receive assistance other than that which is allowed for all children. The divisions are as follows: Primary (preschool – grade 2); Intermediate (grades 3-5); Middle School (grades 6-8); High School (grades 9-12).Students are recognized and awarded prizes as part of the general student population without regard to special needs or challenges.
Option 2. Enter in Special Artist Divisions-Elementary (PK-5th grade) and Secondary (6th-12th grade): Eligible students entering the Special Artist Division create their own artwork, but may receive non-artistic accommodation and assistance from an adult.Students are recognized and awarded prizes as part of the Special Artist Division.
For additional information or questions , please contact Sandhya Deepak at reflections.at.discovery@gmail.com