Sister Cities International is proud to present the 2026 Young Artistsand Authors Showcase, inviting youth from around the world to express their creativity through the theme "Voices of Today, Visions of Tomorrow."
This year’s theme invites young artists and authors to raise their voices during a historic moment as the United States celebrates 250 years since its founding, and Sister Cities International honors 70 years of building global friendships and cultural understanding. It reflects the ongoing journey from the country’s founding ideals toward a more interconnected, peaceful world.
By participating in this inspiring competition, young creators will have the opportunity to share their vision of a world where today’s voices shape tomorrow’s global community. Winning entries will be featured across Sister Cities International’s global network, inspiring people and partnerships around the world.
Local Competition
Prize winners will be announced no later than the week of March 30, 2026.
Two age groups will compete within the local competition: applicants aged 12-14 will compete in one showcase, and those aged 15-18 will compete in another. Both age groups will use this Google form to submit this application. Applicants will be sorted by age based on their birthday.
Local judges will select a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winner for each category and age group, and cash prizes will be awarded accordingly.
All artists’ work will be published to the World Affairs Council of Kentucky & Southern Indiana's website and social media.
The top submissions for each category will be entered into Sister Cities International's worldwide competition.
Competition Guidelines
Students must be between 12 and 18 years as of March 15, 2026.
All work must be original.
All work must be based on the theme “Voices of Today, Visions of Tomorrow.”
All submissions should be digital and uploaded to the form on the next page.
Students may submit one (1) piece of art and may not enter submissions into more than one category.
All entries must meet their category's criteria listed below.
All entries must be submitted and received with a completed application by March 15, 2026.
Judges will evaluate submissions based on theme interpretation, originality and creativity, technical skill, and overall impact.
National Competition
Photographs of all artists’ work (in the case of the Musicians Showcase, artists’ names and names of the pieces) will be published to Sister Cities International’s website.
Two separate competitions will be hosted based on age groups. Applicants aged 12-14 will compete in one showcase, while those aged 15-18 will compete in another. In each age group and each art medium, there will be a Grand Prize, 2nd, and 3rd Place Winner.
One artist will be selected as a Grand Prize Winner, 2nd Place Winner, and 3rd Place Winner for each category and cash prizes will be awarded. Grand prize winners in each age group and each art medium will receive a $1,000 prize. Second place winners will receive a $500 prize, and third place winners will be awarded a $250 prize.