Students Still Have Time To Submit Artwork For MLK Creative Contest

There’s still time for students to create original art and essays that celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

For more than 40 years, the Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs and the Martin Luther King, Jr. State Holiday Commission have held a student Poster Contest. Each year, the students incorporate a quote into their art. This year it is: “At the center of non-violence stands the principle of love.” 

Another contest, the 2025 Project on Racism, invites students to create essays, art, music and films based on the quote: “The surest way to be happy is to seek happiness for others.” 

Essay entries are due by midnight Nov. 18; Posters are due Dec. 6.

Winning poster entries will be exhibited at the Great Hall of the West Virginia State Culture Center from January to February 2025.

The Martin Luther King Jr. State Holiday Commission will also create a 2026 calendar using the winning entries from the poster contest, and winners will be invited to participate in the Jan. 18, 2025 Awards Luncheon.

Members of the public are also invited to nominate individuals and organizations for the 2025 “Living the Dream” Awards. Completed nomination packets for individuals or organizations must be postmarked by Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, before 5 p.m.

Completed nomination packets can be delivered by U.S. postal service, email, or fax.

The awards will be presented Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, as part of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance.