Science Without Borders Challenge 2024: International Student Art Contest
The Science Without Borders® Challenge is a global art competition designed to involve students and educators in ocean conservation through artistic expression. This annual contest encourages students to unleash their creativity while raising public awareness about the importance of preserving, protecting, and restoring the world’s oceans and aquatic resources. The initiative aligns with the overarching goals of the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation. The competition is open to students aged 11-19, offering scholarships of up to $500 to the winning entries.
2024 Science Without Borders® Challenge Theme: Hidden Wonders of the Deep
The theme for the 2024 Science Without Borders® Challenge is “Hidden Wonders of the Deep.” Participants are invited to submit artwork that portrays mysterious and unique deep-sea creatures or ecosystems, shedding light on the beauty and diversity often overlooked. Learn more about the theme here.
Prizes:
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $350
- 3rd Place: $200
Additionally, a “People’s Choice” award is available, with winners in each age group receiving a $50 scholarship.
Eligibility
This international art competition welcomes students aged 11-19, enrolled in primary or secondary school, or the equivalent in homeschooling. College and university students are not eligible.
Entries will be judged in two categories based on age:
- Students 11-14 years old
- Students 15-19 years old
Deadline: Entries must be submitted by Monday, March 4, 2024, to be eligible for consideration.
How to Apply
To participate in the 2024 Science Without Borders Challenge, complete the online entry form, upload a picture of your artwork, and ensure submission before the deadline. For participants under 13, parental consent is required. Before applying, review our Tips for Success for guidance on maximizing your application.
Judging
A panel of artists, educators, and scientists will evaluate entries based on artwork quality, originality, and alignment with the theme. A Grading Rubric will be used for evaluation. When creating your artwork, consider aspects such as theme understanding, artistic elements usage, originality, presentation quality, and emotional impact.
Contest Rules
Review the Contest Rules before starting your artwork, ensuring compliance with the accepted art types, such as original 2-dimensional pieces created by hand. Although the application is online, semi-finalists must mail in the original artwork to be eligible.
For Teachers
Teachers can encourage student participation by accessing resources provided by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation. These resources include information, links to lesson plans, a grading rubric, and a classroom handout.
