Wired to Create Student Art Contest
The Wired to Create Student Art Contest invites K–12 students to submit artwork that shows what keeps Indiana moving forward, through the people, places, industries, and communities that power our state.
From farms and schools to neighborhoods and local businesses, energy connects the places, people, and experiences that matter most.
Electric cooperatives don’t just deliver power—we help power Indiana’s communities. Show us what that means to you!
Need more guidance? Visit the Rules and Eligibility section below for additional details about the theme, artwork requirements, and contest guidelines.
Entries are due March 5, 2027.
Why enter?
- Win up to $300 for your artwork
- Earn statewide recognition through Indiana Electric Cooperatives
- Be featured in cooperative publications, such as the Indiana Connection magazine
What should I create?
Create artwork that shows the people, places, industries, or activities that keep Indiana moving forward.
Electric cooperatives are built on community and the people who live in them, so let your art show the many ways that together, we power Indiana.
Your artwork could include:
- Indiana landscapes or everyday life (farms, towns, neighborhoods, etc.)
- Electricity and energy in everyday life
- Community helpers (lineworkers, farmers, teachers, first responders, families)
- Important places like schools, hospitals, or community spaces
- Agriculture, businesses, or Indiana industries
- Community events, traditions, or local landmarks
- A creative vision of Indiana’s energy future
There’s no right or wrong way to interpret the theme—make it your own!
For more information on the theme or artist statement, please see the Rules and Eligibility document.
How do I enter?
Students may submit artwork online or by mail.
Online Submission
Use the Online Entry Form below to upload a photo or scan of your artwork – no mailing required!
Mail Submission
Send physical artwork to: Wired to Create Student Art Contest, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032
- Include a completed printed Entry Form with mailed artwork.
- Artwork will not be returned unless prepaid return postage is provided
See full instructions for mailing in the Rules & Eligibility document.
Rules and eligibility
Please review all official rules and eligibility requirements before submitting artwork.
Other requirements and guidelines
Theme and Artist Statement:
- All artwork must include a brief artist statement (at least one sentence) explaining how it reflects the theme.
- Students may write their individual statement on their entry form, or on the back of each piece.
For more information on the theme or artist statement, please see the Rules and Eligibility document.
Other Guidelines:
- Students may use a variety or combinations of materials, including but not limited to paint, pencils, markers, collage, stamping, and more.
- Submit original artwork only (see Originality Guidelines for full rules).
- Do not use ruled notebook paper; drawings on white or light-colored paper reproduce best.
- Do not mount, mat, or frame mailed submissions
- Do not fold or crease artwork.
- Artwork previously submitted in past contests is not eligible.
- Late or incomplete entries will not be accepted
DEADLINE: All entries must be submitted online or postmarked by March 5, 2027.
Explore Past Winners
The Cooperative Art Contest evolved from our Calendar Art Contest and continues to celebrate student creativity across Indiana.