Welcome to the 2026 African American Writers & Artists Black History Month Art Contest. A Century of Celebration
This year marks a historic and deeply meaningful milestone—100 years since the founding of Negro History Week, established in 1926 by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. What began as a week dedicated to the study of African American contributions has grown into what we now celebrate as Black History Month
In honor of this centennial moment, African American Writers & Artists invites our young creatives of all disciplines to reflect, respond, and reimagine what this legacy means today. Through art, storytelling, and creative expression, we honor those who laid the foundation, amplify voices that have too often gone unheard, and envision the future we are still building.
This contest is more than a competition—it is a collective act of remembrance, celebration, and cultural preservation. Your work becomes part of a living archive that bridges past, present, and future generations.
We are honored to witness your creativity and grateful for the stories you choose to share.
Welcome to history in the making.
All artist mediums are allowed such as:
poetry, sculptures, stories photography, mixed media, video and more, get creative!
• The artwork must represent an historical figure and/or in Black American history with a short passage of your
how the person/event has influenced your life
• Designs must be the original work of the entrant.
• Designs can be in color or black and white.
• Computer-generated images may be used, but all components must be completely original. You may
not use any copied images.
• Limit two (2) entries per contestant.
• Group submissions are allowed
Works must not be created prior to January 1, 2025
Prizes will be awarded for First Place, Second Place, Third Place
Winning works will be kept by AAW&A for the period of a year to exhibit at various community events and library displays.
Celebration and Art Show
First Prize: $250
Second Prize: $150
Third Prize: $100
All participants will receive a certificate and special gift and acknowledgment during our April 11, awards ceremony. You must confirm your attendance in order to receive your certificate you can also email your name to [email protected]
Pieces that are considered acceptable will be judged by a panel of AAW&A member artists and sponsors.
Awards will be announced Saturday, April 11, 2026 3-5pm. We will also hold a formal art show and awards ceremony at the Malcolm X Library
The decision of the judges is final.
Artwork must be submitted by 5pm April 10, 2026
In Person:
Malcolm X Library
5148 Market St.
San Diego, CA 92114
Via Mail:
San Diego Black Business Network
1286 university ave #727
San Diego, CA 92103
All art will be available for pickup at the Award ceremony on April 11, 2026 at the Malcolm X Library click for more info