Celebrating inclusion, diversity and courage through art work

The All Kids Included student art competition is open to all Miami-Dade students in grades Pre-K-12. Students are invited to submit original art work depicting the competition theme and are asked to draw on the competition's selected book for inspiration.

The theme for 2022 is inspired by the book, The Day You Begin, by National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson, and two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López.

The Day You Begin is a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect with others even when you feel scared and alone. Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. Sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.

Student artists are asked to read the book for inspiration and depict the themes of inclusion, diversity, courage and acceptance.

Selected semi-finalists will be chosen to have their work exhibited and will receive a copy of the book, The Day You Begin. In addition, semi-finalists will be automatically entered into the AKI Student Art Competition finals.

First, second, third place and honorable mention winners will be selected from the semi-finalists for Pre-K, Elementary, Middle and High School levels to receive prizes and to have their work exhibited. A Grand Prize for "Best in Show" will also be chosen. In addition, winning students will each receive a medal and an All Kids Included goody bag.

Art teachers submitting entries selected for first place will each receive a $100 Blick Art Supply Card.

Art teachers submitting the entry selected for Best in Show will receive a $250 Blick Art Supply Card.

All submissions are due no later than Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022.

2022 Contest Submission Forms:

• 2022 AKI Art Contest Guidelines
• Portfolio Inventory List Submission Form
• Artwork Transfer Authorization Form