Creative Teens Encouraged To Enter National Art Competition For $200K

There are many ways to cope with feelings like frustration or anxiety. One way to combat those feelings is through art. Artistic expression can potentially reduce anxiety and feelings of anger or depression. It can also offer a non-threatening way for teens to express their inner feelings, according to the National Institute of Health. Walgreens is offering creative teens from ages 13 to 18 up to $2,000 in cash prizes for the 13th Annual Expressions by Walgreens Challenge. The challenge was created to provide students with a creative outlet to express themselves personally and emotionally.

Now through March 31, students can begin submitting entries for the creative arts competition. Mediums include art, photography, videos, spoken word, literature, and songwriting. Submissions can reflect on critical issues like self-esteem, mental health, bullying, gender identity, abstinence, and more.

Social media influencer Damoyee is one of the Expressions partners. She is encouraging teens to showcase their creativity nationwide through her followers. Damoyee shares videos on her various social media platforms spreading the word about the prize-winning opportunity.

Expressions has reached over 1 million students and awarded more than $350,000 in monetary prizes. Each category will consist of a first, second, and third place winner for a total of 12 winners. Winners will be announced in May 2023 during Mental Health Awareness Month. "Every generation has unique challenges representing the present times. Although Expressions was launched by Walgreens more than a decade ago, it will be relevant for generations to come as it is designed to encourage teens to use self-expression to help them reach their full potential." said John Gremer, senior director, Community Relations, Walgreens. “Expressions began out of a desire to help young people handle the tough issues they may be facing. Helping high school students find their voices through art lines up perfectly with our commitment to create more joyful lives through better health."

You can learn more about the opportunity by visiting ExpressionsChallenge.com.