For immediate release: April 22, 2024

Western North Carolina  –  MountainTrue is thrilled to announce its first-ever Kid’s Merchandise Design Contest, inviting budding artists aged 10-14 to showcase their creativity and love for the mountains. With the aim of fostering appreciation for the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains and promoting environmental stewardship, the contest encourages young minds to express their passion for nature through art. The contest launches on Earth Day, April 22, and runs through May 24, 2024.

The theme of the contest is “I Love Mountains,” inviting participants to illustrate what makes these majestic landscapes special to them. Designs that celebrate the beauty and biodiversity of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains will be favored, along with those that inspire others to share in the love for our mountains and region.

“We are excited to see the unique perspectives and creative expressions of young artists as they showcase their love for mountains,” said Amy Finkler, Development and Engagement Manager at MountainTrue. “This contest provides a platform for youth to connect with nature and share their environmental enthusiasm with the region.”

The winner of the contest will have the exclusive opportunity to collaborate with a professional designer to refine their design and prepare it for merchandise production. Additionally, the winning design will be featured on wearable merchandise, allowing the artist to proudly showcase their creation. The winner will also receive recognition in a MountainTrue e-newsletter as the contest champion.

Complete guidelines and requirements for the contest are as follows:

Theme: I Love Mountains

1. Preference given to designs showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains.
2. Preference given to designs that encourage others to share their love for mountains and the region.

Rules:

1. Designs must not contain offensive material or profanity.
2. Participants must be within the age range of 10-14 at the time of submission.
3. Winners must be available in August 2024 for a virtual meeting with the designer.
4. No restrictions on the number of colors or entries submitted.

Submission Deadline: May 24, 2024

The winner selection process will involve MountainTrue staff selecting three finalists on June 3, whose designs will be showcased to MountainTrue supporters and the general public for voting until June 30. The final winner will be notified during the first week of July. Parents or guardians must provide permission for participants to enter the contest. For more information on how to enter the contest and submission guidelines, visit mountaintrue.org/event/earth-day-kids-merchandise-design-contest/.

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