Art Contest

Elgin is a CANVAS art contest

We know what Elgin was, and we know what it is today - buy what will it be in 100 years? We are looking for young visionaries to show us the Elgin of the future. will there be flying boats on the Fox River? Skyscraper gardens? Or, glass domes that keep the weather perfect all year round? SHOW US YOUR VISION!

Contest Guidelines

Format: All entries must be submitted on a single sheet of 8.5" x 11" paper (portrait or landscape).

Medium: Students may use crayons, markers or colored pencils.

Originality: Artwork must be original and created entirely by the student.

The Challenge: Your drawing must represent your vision of Elgin 100 years from now.

Prompt: Think about your favorite park, the Fox River, our schools, or downtown. How will they look in the year 2126?

Eligibility & Categories

The contest is open to all students residing in or attending school within Elgin, including home school. Entries will be judged in the following categories:

Preschool – Kindergarten, Grades 1 – 4, Grades 5 – 8, Grades 9 – 12

How to Enter

Step 1: Create your masterpiece!

Step 2: Ensure the back of the entry includes: Student Name, Grade, School, and Parent/Guardian Contact Information (email address or phone number).

Step 3: Drop off your entry to Gail Borden Public Library - KidSpace Desk, 270 Grove Avenue, Elgin IL 60120 by June 19, 2026.

Important Dates

Contest Launch: March 1, 2026

Submission Deadline: Friday, June 19, 2026

Judging Criteria

Entries will be reviewed by a panel of local artists and community leaders based on:

  • Creativity: How unique is your vision of the future?

  • Expression of Theme: Does it clearly represent Elgin’s future?

  • Effort: Does the artwork show care and detail appropriate for the age group?

Prizes & Recognition

Public Display: Selected entries will be displayed at Gail Borden and on the official Elgin 250 web and social media sites.

Winners: In each category will receive a prize.