2026 Novel Expressions Art Contest

Turn words into art

Create an original work inspired by a piece of literature for a chance to win a cash prize of up to $200! For teens and adults.

Entries will be accepted online Sept. 1-22. Check back for guidelines once the contest opens and get ready to submit your work using the online form!

Finalists will have a chance to exhibit their work at our gala in November.

This contest is presented in partnership with Loudoun County Parks, Recreation and Community Services (PRCS) and the Loudoun Youth Advisory Council.

Create an original work of art inspired by a specific piece of literature. This can be a novel, short story, poem, song lyrics or any other literary work. The literary connection is required and will be a major part of judging.

Email artcontest@library.loudoun.gov with any questions.

The submission link will be available below beginning Tuesday, Sept. 1.

Submissions

Artists may submit one piece of artwork:

• All artistic mediums are accepted.
• The piece must be your own creation.
• *New* The maximum size should fit within 48"x48". If chosen as a finalist, you will need to prepare your work for exhibition according to the Display Requirements below. The 48"x48" max includes the frame or display materials needed.

Artists will be asked to include:

• The title and author of the literary work.
• A short (300 word max) description that explains the connection to literature.
• A clear digital image of the completed artwork. Artwork selected for the final round must be the same as the original submission.
  • File name: Your category (MIDDLE, HIGH or ADULT) followed by the title of the artwork. Do not include your name. Example: MIDDLE The Masterpiece.png

Judging

Entries are separated into three categories and judged by members of the Loudoun Youth Advisory Council, PRCS staff, LCPL librarians and local professional artists. The top five entries in each group will be displayed on exhibit at the gala.

• Middle School (Grades 6-8)
• High School (Grades 9-12)
• Adults (Ages 18+)

Judging will take into account the following:

• Connection to literature: How strongly the artwork ties into the literature it is inspired by 
• Artistic technique: Skill, quality and attention to detail
• Originality and creativity: Unique interpretation of the source material
• Overall impression: How well the work stands on its own and communicates the literary connection

Display Requirements for Finalists

Finalists will be notified by Wednesday, Oct. 14, and are responsible for preparing their artwork for display at the gala in November.

To accommodate available exhibition space, all two-dimensional artwork must not exceed 48"x48". This maximum applies to the finished piece as it will be displayed, including the artwork, mat, frame and any permanent components.

Professional framing is not required, and the frame or other display materials will not be judged. However, artwork that does not follow the guidelines below may not advance to final judging.

• Two-dimensional artwork must be securely framed and ready to hang, with hanging wire firmly attached to eyehooks or D-rings on the back.
• Works on paper must be protected by acrylic or glass. Frames must be sturdy, in good condition and appropriate for the size and weight of the artwork.
• Three-dimensional and sculptural submissions will be evaluated individually based on their dimensions, weight, stability and display requirements. Artists considering a large or unusually configured three-dimensional submission should contact artcontest@library.loudoun.gov before entering.
• Gallery-wrapped canvases may be displayed without an outer frame if the edges are finished and hanging wire is securely attached.
• Sawtooth hangers, adhesive hanging strips and unsecured clip frames will not be accepted.

Prizes

Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in each category:

• First place: $200 gift card
• Second place: $100 gift card 
• Third place: $50 gift card

Gala

All are welcome to attend and view the top five finalists in each category on display. All qualifying entries will also be presented digitally. The event will feature a keynote speech by artist Eric Scott starting at 1:45 p.m.

Art Contest Gala
Saturday, Nov. 7, 1-3 p.m.

Franklin Park Performing and Visual Arts Center
(36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville)