Photo by Anna Kolosyuk on Unsplash
In hopes of promoting and advertising the importance of agriculture in everyday life, the Agricenter is hosting its 15th annual student art contest and exhibition for Ag Day 2019. Originally called the “Ag Day Poster Contest,” last year the competition expanded to include older age groups, DeSoto County, and more art mediums besides posters.
Initiated in 2004 with an idea to inspire students to learn more about agriculture and appreciate the importance it has in their lives, the contest totaled 437 entries last year alone. This year the contest is led by Agricenter International director of education & University of Tennessee extension agent, Tim Roberts.
The theme, entitled “Agriculture: Food for Life,” is intended to encourage imagination and creativity amongst students in Shelby County and DeSoto County for students in 3rd through 12th grades. The artwork submission period is open now and runs through March 1st, and artwork can be submitted in several mediums including: drawing, painting, collage, photography, graphic design, or short video, and will be judged based on artistry, uniqueness, and interpretation of concept. Eligibility is based in three categories, category 1: grade levels 3-6; category 2: grades 7-9; and category 3: grades 10-12.
First place winners will receive $100, second place winners $50, and third place winners $25. The teachers of all first place contestants will also receive a $100 reward. Teachers receive one entry per student entered, and one teacher at random will be chosen for a $250 award to use toward art supplies in the classroom. The winning posters will also be hung at the state senator’s office in Nashville, the county mayor’s office, and at Agricenter.
Entries can be mailed or hand delivered to: Agricenter International,7777 Walnut Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 38120. Hand delivered entries must be submitted during normal business hours, 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, to the Agricenter Administrative Offices. For more information, click here or call 901-757-7777 extension 7100.