2023-2024 Reflections Art Program
Reflections® is a theme focused PTA arts recognition program. The Reflections program celebrates student creativity and encourages school age youth to express themselves through the arts. Student art is judged first at the school level (Hilltop). Finalists from the school level will move on to the district level (Edmonds). Finalists from that level then move on to the state level (WA) and finally the national PTA level for judging.
Hilltop PTSA is happy to provide a way for our artistic students to shine. We invite students to submit an original creation in one of the categories below. The Edmonds PTSA Council will select entries from submissions across the district to move on to the National PTSA contest
Previous art experience not required | Special Artist Category for students identified as having a disability
The 2023-2024 Reflections Theme is: “I am Hopeful because…”
There are 6 art categories for student artists to choose from
visual art | photography | dance | music | video | writing
*** Deadline December 8th, 2023***
Online Submissions are preferred
To enter students must submit a JPG image (or other digital file) of their artwork along with the required entry form attached as a PDF to www.tinyurl.com/HTreflections
Paper forms can also be picked up at the office and students can turn in their art with the required entry form to their teacher or the office.
REQUIRED ENTRY FORM - SPANISH
Additional information online at Washington State PTA website
Student art showcase/exhibit planned for the spring art show
Participation in Reflections is easy! Students should follow these steps for entry:
Step 1 – Reflect on the theme “I am hopeful because…”
This step is important
Step 2 – Select an art category in which to express your reflection on the theme
See below for list of art categories and descriptions
Step 3 – Create a work of original art
Student artists should be mindful of how their work REFLECTS the theme, as well as the artistic TECHNIQUE (skill in process, use of materials, etc.) and PRESENTATION (attention to details). Do not put name on front of art or writing.
Step 4 – Complete the REFLECTIONS ENTRY FORM / EN ESPAÑOL including title of the artwork and artist statement
The artist statement should thoughtfully communicate the content and inspiration of the work and how it relates to the theme.
NOTE: The statement will be considered part of the art during the judging process!
Step 5 – Submit art and entry form.
Upload your entry form as a PDF attachment and an image of your artwork as a JPG attachment www.tinyurl.com/HTreflections. Worlds or music, film or video may be attached as different file types per the rules.
Deadline for submission is Friday, December 8th. Submissions before this date are welcome and appreciated!
Students may submit/enter in as many different arts categories as they would like, however only one entry per category is allowed. A separate entry form is required for each submission. Only new, original works of art, inspired by the current year’s theme, may be submitted.
The categories for entry are:
- Music: musical composition, with or without words
- Writing/Literature: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, prose, drama, short stories, lyrics
- Photography: color or black and white photography (various photographic techniques accepted)
- Visual Arts: 2D – drawing, painting, computer generated art, collage, printmaking, or 3D – sculptural works (clay, wood, glass, leather, fabric, etc.)
- Film/ Video Production: animation, narrative, documentary, experimental or music video (with or without audio)
- Dance: choreographed dance composition
For brief descriptions of each category see the Student Entry Form. It is recommended that students review the Student Entry Form prior to starting their art. For detailed descriptions and guidelines for each category, go to the drop-down pages under Student Entry Rules at https://www.wastatepta.org/events-programs/reflections/. The specific rules outlined on these pages create the necessary boundaries to allow for fair judging, exhibits and awards.
Helpful notes:
- To fill in the form, type your information
- Use parent email and phone number for these fields, optional for high school students to include their own email and phone in addition to parents
- A unique TITLE for the artwork and a brief description or STATEMENT are required
- If you have any questions, email HilltopElemPTSA@gmail.com
CALL FOR THEME (optional, not required for Reflections art entry)Each year, National PTA seeks a theme for the Reflections program to be held two years out. This year students are invited to submit a theme for the 2025-2026 program year. . Click here to go to the Reflections Theme Search online entry form. Entries are due by November 1, 2023. (At the bottom of the submission form enter PTA Name: HILLTOP ELEMENTARY PTSA 7.2.55 and PTA ID Number: 00023071
Reflections® is an annual art contest as well as a program to promote student creativity. Up to twenty entries from Hilltop will move up from the school level. From there they will have the opportunity to move up through the district and state PTA programs, and then onto the national level. Of the national-level submissions, over 200 student participants will receive awards. National PTA Reflections winners will be announced in May 2024 and celebrated at National PTA’s Convention & Expo in June.
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered nonprofit that prides itself on being a voice for all school children; a resource for families and communities; and a strong advocate for public education. Each year the National PTA assigns the Reflections theme based on suggestions made by students the prior year. Local PTAs (such as Washington State PTA, and down to hyper-local Hilltop Elementary PTSA) play a vital role in supporting schools through advocacy, fundraising, programming, and social events.
Questions? email HilltopElemPTSA@gmail.com
