How It Works
Each year, students in Grades 7 through 12 are invited to create original artworks with accompanying artist statements inspired by leaders in Canadian art history. Applicants are encouraged to interpret this theme as broadly as they wish and to create works in any media.
A student submission consists of the completed submission form (including the artist statement), and a high-resolution image of the artwork.
Prizes and Online Exhibition
Cash prizes of $500 for first place winners and $250 for honorable mentions will be awarded in different age categories, including Grades 7-9, and Grades 10-12.
At the end of May 2025, all finalists will have their artwork showcased in a national online exhibition hosted on ACI’s website.
See online exhibitions for our 2023 winners, 2022 winners, and 2021 winners.
Important Dates
Winners will be announced and prizes awarded at the end of May 2025.
Resources for Teachers
Visual Arts teachers are invited to integrate the Student Challenge into their classrooms and explore the 10 inspiring art projects published annually in a bespoke creativity booklet designed for educators. Spread the word in your school community with our one-page handout, and our downloadable classroom poster.
For more information see our rules and regulations.
If you have any questions, please contact Emma Doubt, Director of Programming and Education at edoubt@aci-iac.ca.
To stay up to date on the latest student challenge announcements, please sign up to our Education Newsletter.
Download the new Student Creativity Booklet.
Activity Ideas