Calling All Young Artists!

Global Canvas Children’s Art Competition 2019

If you’re young, arty and concerned about conservation, why not enter this year’s ‘Global Canvas’ contest? Your colourful creation could end up on display at London’s famous Natural History Museum!

The annual Global Canvas Children’s Art Competition was set up in 2004 by DSWF to encourage young people to express their concern for wildlife and the environment through art.

This year’s theme is ‘Habitats of the World’ and group entries are invited from children aged 16 years and under. Entrants can use creative media including art, sculpture, textiles, collage etc. to present a mini-exhibition reflecting the competition topic.

“This year’s theme is a celebration of all the wonderful and weird places where animals make their homes – whether that’s an ocean, a desert, or even a rotting log!” said DSWF’s Education Manager Jo Elphick.

“Global Canvas gives young artists the chance to investigate the threats faced by wild animals and to their habitats and think about what they can do to help. We encourage an emphasis on wildlife, but all of earth’s fauna and flora maybe represented in as creative a way as possible.”

Entry to the competition is FREE and the winners will be announced at an exciting exhibition and ceremony at London’s Natural History Museum – a memorable day for all those shortlisted. Entrants will be vying for first second and third prizes, as well as a number of special awards.

The David Shepherd Award will be presented in memory of the talented wildlife artist and conservationist, who sadly died last year. This year’s Global Canvas competition is once again kindly sponsored by Michael and Lesley O’Mara from Michael O’ Mara books, who will choose a Personal Choice Award. This year’s guest speaker is military and wildlife artist Mandy Shepherd, David’s daughter, who will also present her own award.

Speaking about Global Canvas a few years ago, David Shepherd CBE, FRSA (2031-17) said: “It never ceases to amaze me how astute children are. They have a real grasp of conservation issues and what really matters if we are to save this amazing planet of ours. It is heart-warming to know that the next generation is passionate enough to make a difference.”

Last year’s competition attracted an amazing 4546 children, who took part from schools and children’s art clubs in 16 different countries, including Bulgaria, Canada, China, Colombia, India, Iran, Malaysia and Russia – as well as lots of entries from the UK.

The theme in 2018 was ‘Into the Wild’ and the overall winner was ‘Hope Shark’ created by children from St Hilary’s School in Godalming, Surrey. It was a striking piece with an important conservation message, using recycled materials to create a shark cresting a wave.

“We are always truly amazed by the high standard of artworks submitted by the children and touched by the amount of thought that has gone into the messages behind them,” added Jo. “We are really looking forward to seeing what the world’s talented young artists and their teachers can dream up this year!”

Entry to the competition is FREE and the closing date for entries is 31 January 2019 – so get painting, drawing, sculpting, printing, knitting, sewing and collaging!

For full details on how to enter Global Canvas 2019: Habitats of the World and inspiration from last year’s event, click here.