The annual Union County 4-H Creative Arts Competition is an exciting opportunity for youth to showcase their skills, imagination, and artistic talents. Participants can submit work in a wide variety of mediums, from photography and painting to sculpture, sewing, digital art, and more.

This competition is designed to encourage creativity and confidence in all skill levels. Whether your child is entering for the first time or has been creating for years, their work will be celebrated and appreciated.

Categories & Rules

Photography

• Entry Rules: Images may be printed in color or black & white. Minimum size: 8×10 inches. All photos must be mounted on card stock at least 11×14 inches. Photos smaller than 5×7 inches or larger than 11×14 inches will not be accepted.

Subcategories:

• Nature & Landscapes – Scenic views, plants, flowers, weather, and outdoor environments (no animals as the main subject).

• Animals & Wildlife – Domestic animals, farm animals, or wildlife as the primary subject.

• People & Portraits – Individual or group portraits, candid moments, or posed photos of people.

• Action & Sports – Capturing motion or activity such as sports, performances, or fast-moving events.

• Special Effects – Creative photography using in-camera effects, lighting, or editing.

• Black & White – Images presented entirely in black and white.

• 4-H in Action – Photos of 4-H members participating in projects, events, or community service.

• Open – Any photograph that does not fit the above categories.

Painting (Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor)

• Entry Rules: Minimum size: 8×10 inches. Maximum size: 16×20 inches.

Subcategories:

• Original Painting – Entirely original design created by the participant.

• Template or Paint by Numbers – Pre-made template, stencil, or paint-by-numbers kit.

Sculptures

• Hand-formed and free-standing. No kits allowed.

• Materials may include soap, wood, clay, paper mache, wire, cloth, metal, plastic, foam, paper, plaster, etc.

• Must fit within a 2-foot square of table space. Height should remain reasonable.

Sewing

• Projects should show the ability to properly stitch and finish a garment.

Yarn Art

Projects created using yarn as the main material. This can include wrapped designs, woven pieces, pom-pom creations, string art, or decorative wall hangings. Kits may be used but should be noted on the entry form. Judging will be based on neatness, creativity, and overall presentation.

Pottery

• Handmade, original designs of clay, fired. May be glazed or unglazed. Must be free-standing.

Drawing

• Original work. Minimum size: 8×10 inches, mounted on 11×14 inches.

LEGO Designs

• May be original or modeled from kits. Please note which.

• Must be securely mounted to a base no larger than 12” x 18” x 16”.

Woodworking

• Small projects built or carved by hand or with tools (e.g., birdhouses, boxes). Must be finished for display.

Digital Art

• Original artwork created digitally. Must be printed on paper or canvas for display.

Creative Writing

• Original work such as a poem, song, or essay.

Jewelry Making

• Handcrafted items such as necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.

4-H Spirit

• Projects that celebrate 4-H pride (posters, banners, mixed media, etc.).

• Should incorporate 4-H symbols, mottos, or values. Must not exceed 24 inches in any direction.

Open Category

• For creative projects that do not fit another category. Must be original, safe to display, and reasonable in size.

Disclaimer: Union County 4-H is not responsible for any missing pieces.

Prizes

Participants will receive the following:

Scholarship Bucks may be used toward Union County 4-H summer camps, overnight camps, activities, livestock/horse competition entries, or purchases in the 4-H Store.