Deadline approaching: VisionGreenwood ‘s statewide Artificial Intelligence (AI) art competition

$1,000 in Awards | Expanded Categories | New Theme: Life Through A “Eyes”

VisionGreenwood announced the 2025 AI Art Show + Competition, a statewide creative challenge that invites South Carolinians of all ages to explore the intersection of human experience and artificial intelligence. Presented in partnership with The Arts Center of Greenwood, this year’s event builds on the success of previous competitions with expanded categories, increased prize money, and a new thought-provoking theme: “Life Through A ‘Eyes.’”

The competition encourages participants to create original AI-generated images or short videos that capture personal stories, emotions, and perspectives.

Finalists will be showcased at a public exhibition during the iMAGINE Lakelands STEAM Festival on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Uptown Greenwood, with the awards ceremony beginning at 1:00 p.m. Leading up to the show, the AI-generated artworks will be projected onto various locations throughout Uptown Greenwood, offering the community a captivating glimpse into the creative efforts of the students.

Expanded Categories for 2025
• Elementary & Middle School – One AI-generated image
• High School – One image plus one short video (20 seconds or less)
• College/Graduate School – One image plus one short video
• Old School (65+) – One AI-generated image

Award Categories
• Council’s Choice
• People’s Choice
• AI’s Choice

With $1,000 in prize money, the competition offers recognition from both human and AI judging panels.

“This competition continues to grow each year, and we’re thrilled to expand it to include participants of all ages,” said Kay Self, Executive Director of VisionGreenwood. “AI is shaping our future, and this event provides a unique platform for South Carolinians to use technology not just as a tool, but as a partner in storytelling and artistic expression.”

Jennifer Smith, Gallery & Marketing Director at The Arts Center of Greenwood, added: “Art has always been about perspective, and this year’s theme, Life Through A ‘Eyes’, challenges us to see the world in new and unexpected ways. We’re proud to showcase these works in our gallery and provide a space where technology and creativity meet.”

Sponsors
VisionGreenwood extends its gratitude to the sponsors who make this event possible. Comcast returns as Presenting Sponsor, with additional support from Greenwood Capital, Associates, and The Arts Center of Greenwood. Their commitment helps provide opportunities for South Carolinians to explore innovation, creativity, and the future of art through technology.

Important Dates
• Entry Deadline – Wednesday, October 1, 2025
• Exhibition & Reception – Saturday, October 18, 2025, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
• Awards Ceremony – Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

All selected entries will be printed and displayed at The Arts Center of Greenwood during the festival. Entry is free and open to anyone residing in South Carolina.

How to Enter
To enter, go to https://form.jotform.com/252367250445153
For complete entry details, visit www.visiongreenwood.org or contact Kay Self at [email protected] | (864) 388-1250.

About The Lakelands Emerging Technology Council
With a focus on emerging technology and innovation, VisionGreenwood established the Lakelands Emerging Technology Council (LETC) to bring opportunities to the Lakelands region. Recognizing the relevance and pace of evolving technology, the Council helps connect, advance, and advocate for technological advancements across the community.

Members of the LETC include:
• Brandon Smith, Mayor of Greenwood and Chairman, VisionGreenwood
• Kay Self, Executive Director, VisionGreenwood
• Charles Angel, President, Due West Robotics & Software Developer for Greenwood Genetic Center
• Les Brown, M.Ed., Director of Information Technology, Self Regional Healthcare
• Kevin Farren, Chief Information Officer, Greenwood Genetic Center
• Dennis Fassuliotis, South Carolina Blockchain, Inc.
• Abdallah Haddad, Chief Information & Technology Officer, Lander University
• John R. McElligott, CEO, Embracing Disruption
• Matt Wiggins, Dean – Workforce Innovation Division, Piedmont Technical College
• Dr. Lloyd Willis, Dean – College of Business & Technology, Lander University

About VisionGreenwood
VisionGreenwood is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to Greenwood’s future through strategic investments in economic growth, community development, and quality of life. With deep roots in the community, VisionGreenwood has invested over $2.9 million in collaborative initiatives that foster long-term prosperity and enhance the region’s success. Originally established more than 20 years ago and rebranded in 2021, VisionGreenwood continues to provide leadership and serve as a trusted partner dedicated to the continued progress of Greenwood and the vitality of a thriving, forward-looking community.