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2026 Art Contest

The Great Canoe Races of Naples invites local artists, students, designers, and creatives to submit artwork inspired by Legends of the Gulf. Entries will determine the official poster, t-shirt art, and medal design for the 2026 event.

Submission Requirements

Theme: Legends of the Gulf.

(Think Pirates, Mermaids, Squalies)
 

The theme “Legends of the Gulf” can be interpreted literally or imaginatively. Artists may depict:

  • Myths, folklore, or invented legends

  • Marine animals — real or symbolic

  • Coastal landscapes and waterscapes

  • Historic paddlers and seafarers

  • Fantasy interpretations of sea life or Gulf spirit beings

  • Naples’ own water traditions

The goal: Capture the essence of what makes the Gulf of Mexico legendary.

Important Dates

  • Submissions Open: Dec 10

  • Submissions Close: Jan 23

  • Judging: Jan 23–25

  • Winners Announced: Late January

Submission Requirements

A complete entry includes:

  1. Poster design (18x24, vertical)

  2. T-shirt graphic (1–5 colors)

  3. Medal front design

File Specs

  • JPG, PNG, or PDF

  • Minimum 300 dpi

  • High-quality scans for physical artwork

Judging Criteria

Each submission scored 1–10 on:

  • Creativity & originality

  • Theme interpretation

  • Cultural & environmental relevance

  • Visual impact

  • Suitability for merchandise

  • Technical execution

Prizes

1st Place – Grand Prize

  • Featured as official 2026 artwork

  • Free 10x10 vendor booth

  • Website + social media spotlight

  • Featured in event program

2nd & 3rd Place

  • Free 10x10 booth

  • Recognition & promotional features

Honorable Mentions

  • Online + event-day display

Rights & Usage

Artists retain copyright and grant non-exclusive reproduction rights to The Great Canoe Races of Naples for event materials.

Enter Now!

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