COMPETITION Rules

Students who have won two top awards in previous ARTEFFECT competitions are no longer eligible. No submissions to the 2026 ARTEFFECT competition can win more than one award or prize.

See our FAQ page for frequently asked questions and more details about eligibility.

Submitted projects must be entirely student-produced. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools by students is prohibited at any stage of the creative process for artworks and Impact Statements. Be advised that submitted artworks and Impact Statements will be scanned for AI usage.

Student artworks must focus on an Unsung Hero chosen from the Unsung Heroes Directory. The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes has an expanding list of over 100 individuals spanning time and all fields of endeavor. Students who choose to focus on an unsung hero in the directory must receive approval for their topic from ARTEFFECT prior to submitting their entry. Email request for approval to arteffect@lowellmilken.org.

Unsung Heroes are individuals who took extraordinary actions in service to others and society yet are not widely recognized for their contributions. They demonstrated altruistic traits including conscience, courage, creativity, generosity, humility, perseverance, and reliability. Unsung Heroes positively and profoundly made a difference in the lives of others and had an impact on the course of history. Explore the stories of these individuals as inspiring role models!

The artwork demonstrates a thorough understanding of the Unsung Hero’s story in an innovative and exceptionally thoughtful way. The use of well-developed artistic ideas expresses an interpretation of the Unsung Hero’s character traits, heroic act(s), and/or social impact in a manner that is thought-provoking, complex, and compelling.

The artwork demonstrates a high level of technical skill, craftsmanship, and outstanding execution of the media. The artist applied refined artistic techniques to the creation of the artwork with a thoughtful, eye-catching composition, strong and distinctive artistic voice, and high aesthetic value.

The essay is 500-1000 words, and addresses all five prompt questions in a clear, captivating, and articulate synthesis. It presents the artist’s impressions about Unsung Hero’s inspiring qualities and impact, and the artwork’s intended meaning or message. The artist includes a thorough description of their creative process, an authentic reflection on the impact this project had on their life, and a specific plan for sharing their artwork with others. The writing uses standard English conventions with a high level of competency. View the Judging Rubric PDF for more details.