2026 Youth Art Month Iowa Guidelines


​Only AEI members are eligible to enter. Membership dues must be paid at or before the January board meeting for work to be accepted.
  • Entry is a two step process:
    • Electronic entry for each work must be completed by January 17th, 2026 (3pm)
    • ​Artwork submitted will be juried during the Winter AEI board meeting on January 24th, 2026 at Prairie City Middle School (407 E Plainsman Rd Prairie City, IA 50228) - judging begins promptly at 10 a.m. You must bring them to the meeting or send with your AEI Rep 
    • You do not need to send the release form with the student work, but please keep it on file for selected work.
  • All work must be 2-D
  • Each AEI Member/teacher may enter up to 10 works of art.
  • Maximum matted size: 24" x 30"  (protective backing recommended) space is limited….
  • Artwork must be labeled front and 2 back (one secured on all 4 sides and one just taped on top to be removed is selected. Labels are downloadable from Google Drive
  • Each student whose work is selected for the exhibition will receive an invitation to the YAM reception as well as a certificate of achievement

Program Snapshot

What is It?:
Youth Art Month is a statewide celebration and exhibit of student artwork. Winning artwork pieces are displayed at the Iowa YAM Show, Iowa Governor's Show, and at NAEA in the Youth Art Month Museum. There are also prize categories sponsored by art vendors. 

Who is eligible?:
K-12 students.  Each AEI member may nominate up to 10 students.

Thank you to our Sponsors
for Youth Art Month!
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For questions or to join the committee contact [email protected]
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