Big River Art Contest

The Big River Art Contest is a way for students in Grades 3-6 to share their experiences with the Mississippi River by creating a piece of art. While the Big River Art contest works well in conjunction with the educational programs offered by the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, it is open to any Grade 3-6 student who is inspired by the mightiest river in North America! 

The contest is organized into categories. One of the categories requires that students participate in educational programming offered by the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The other two categories are open to all students. 

Teachers can encourage students to interpret their river learning experiences through art and enter the contest as individuals or teachers can make it a whole class project. Students are encouraged to get out and explore, do some research, or ask a friend or family member to share a story about the Mississippi River and then share their own experience by turning it into an art piece. Past winners have used poems, piecework, pastels, collages, sketches, and pointillism to convey their art work.

The winning art will be displayed at two major Twin Cities attractions: Fort Snelling State Park and Mill City Museum. Winners will also be honored at the Big River Awards in July. 

Grades: 3-6

Dates: Submissions can be made anytime between November and June

Cost: FREE (postage and art materials not provided)

Contact: Ranger Abby Olson, abigail_olson@nps.gov.