The Laurens Artist’s Coop is inviting artists of all ages to take part in the America 250 Creative Arts Contest, a juried exhibition marking the 250th anniversary of American Independence. Organizers are encouraging participants to interpret a single guiding question through their work: “What Does American Spirit Look Like to You?”

The contest asks artists to reflect on the ideals of independence, opportunity, and freedom through original visual expression. Selected works will be displayed at the Artist’s Coop as part of the official America 250 Celebration, with the exhibition running from June 28 through July 31, 2026.

How to Enter
Each artist may submit up to three original pieces. Entry fees are structured to keep participation accessible:

First submission: $20
Each additional submission: $5
Maximum of three pieces per artist
The contest will accept a total of 100 pieces each from School Age artists and Adult artists.

Prizes Across Every Age Group
Awards are offered for both school-age and adult participants. In the School Age divisions, first place in each of the following categories earns $50:

Kindergarten through 2nd grade
3rd through 5th grade
6th through 8th grade
9th through 12th grade
People’s Choice
Adult artists, described on the contest flyer as those “18 to 250 years old,” will compete for a first-place prize of $250 cash.

A Bonus for New Members
Organizers are also using the contest to welcome new members to the Coop. Any contest artist who joins the Artist Coop during the contest period will receive 50 percent off the $100 first-year membership fee.

Artists interested in entering can scan the QR code on the contest flyer for full details and submission information. With categories spanning the youngest students to seasoned adult artists, the America 250 Creative Arts Contest offers Laurens County a chance to see how its own community envisions the spirit of the nation as the country marks a milestone anniversary.