The 2025 Art Competitions: Why Participating in Scholastic, YoungArts, and Songbird is Essential for Aspiring Artists

The art world is constantly evolving, and the 2025 competition season is about to make a huge splash for young, emerging artists. Competitions like Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, YoungArts, and Songbird provide invaluable opportunities for growth, exposure, and connection in the artistic community. These platforms not only help launch careers but also encourage creativity, skill development, and artistic exploration.

If you’re considering entering a competition this year, it’s important to understand what each offers and how they can shape your future as an artist.

1. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: A Gateway to Recognition and Opportunity

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is one of the oldest and most prestigious art competitions in the United States. Founded in 1923, this competition is open to students in grades 7-12, with categories ranging from drawing and painting to photography, film, poetry, and even journalism. Winners of the Scholastic Awards gain recognition at regional and national levels, often leading to scholarships, college admissions opportunities, and internships.

Why Participate in Scholastic?

• Exposure: Thousands of young artists and writers are judged by industry professionals, offering invaluable visibility.

• Scholarships: Top winners receive scholarships to colleges and art schools, including a chance to attend prestigious programs like the Rhode Island School of Design or the Savannah College of Art and Design.

• Legacy: Many successful artists, including Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, and John Updike, were Scholastic Award winners in their youth.

Whether you’re a painter, photographer, or writer, Scholastic offers a powerful platform for students to showcase their creative work and gain access to exciting opportunities.

2. YoungArts: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Visionaries

YoungArts is a nationwide program that identifies and supports young artists (ages 15-18) in visual, literary, and performing arts. As one of the most prestigious competitions for emerging talent, YoungArts offers monetary awards, scholarships, mentorship, and exclusive opportunities to collaborate with established artists in the field.

Winning YoungArts can lead to significant exposure in the art world and the chance to network with professionals in your discipline. Alumni include world-renowned artists like Kerry Washington, Zedd, and Viola Davis, who all attribute their success to their experiences as YoungArts Fellows.

Why Participate in YoungArts?

• Mentorship & Networking: With access to workshops and masterclasses from industry leaders, YoungArts provides participants with career-shaping advice and insights.

• Performance & Exhibition Opportunities: Winners perform or exhibit their work at prestigious venues, including the Kennedy Center and The Museum of Modern Art.

• Scholarships: YoungArts winners receive substantial financial awards to help fund their further education and artistic careers.

If you're serious about your future as an artist, YoungArts is the perfect platform to gain recognition, develop your craft, and connect with a community of passionate, like-minded individuals.

Check out our Art Competition Classes here.