Sister Cities sponsors student art contest

Students ages 13 to 18 are invited to create art or writing around the theme “The Power of Exchange” for a Suffolk Sister Cities art showcase.

Entrants could advance to a national competition, then to an international tour that will go to selected sister cities. Cash prizes will be available at each level.

“I think it’s something that can really boost their self-esteem when their pieces are chosen,” said Kay Goldberg, who along with Pat Iannetta is co-chair of the cultural outreach committee of Suffolk Sister Cities. “We encourage students to enter the contest. We feel like it’s very worthwhile for them.”

The 2011 Best in Show winner, Dakota Evers, was selected as one of the 10 international finalist pieces. His mixed-media work depicted the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

This year’s contest is the 25th annual one for the Suffolk Sister Cities. Entries, which are due March 1, will be judged, and winners will be displayed in the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts. A reception will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. March 17, and the exhibit will remain on display through April 19.

“The organization strives to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation,” Goldberg said. “We feel like they’re sharing their talent with other sister cities, and that increases the sense of community internationally.”

For the local level of the competition, the Best in Show winner receives $100 and entry into the national contest. In addition, the first-place winner in each category — painting, drawing, mixed media, photography/computer-generated art, poetry and essay — receives $50. Ribbons will be presented to first-, second- and third-place and honorable mention winners, and certificates will be given to all participants.

For more information on the contest, call 539-7212 or email kaydon24@mac.com.