Creating art is not always easy. It can be rewarding, but it can also be difficult and daunting. So for six years, the Chicago Public Library has run the Teen Winter Challenge art competition to encourage teens to create art and provide a platform for teens to share their art with the world.
Over 70 teens submitted to this year’s Teen Winter Challenge, the theme of which was “Illuminate the World with Art.” You can view a work from each of the portfolio submissions at our virtual slideshow. From these submissions, a panel of judges headlined by Sky Cubacub of Rebirth Garments chose a group of award winners whose works are showcased below.
How did we arrive at this year’s theme? It was a time dominated by COVID, police violence, racism, and political vitriol. Fear, rage, sadness, and uncertainty were threatening to overwhelm us. But creating art can provide a beacon within the darkness, and sharing that art can spread its light to others. We hope these teen-created pieces bring your world a little more light.
Congratulations to our winners and thank you to every teen that applied!
Senior achievement
- Daniela L, Senior Achievement Grand Prize Winner
- Rebekah L, Senior Achievement First Runner Up
- Shuying T, Senior Achievement Second Runner Up
- Elizabeth C, Senior Achievement Honorable Mention
- Zoe G, Senior Achievement Honorable Mention
- Jaylene C, Senior Achievement Honorable Mention
Young Artist Award
- Natalia C, Young Artist Award Grand Prize Winner
- Olly R, Young Artist Award First Runner Up
- Nalani S, Young Artist Award Second Runner Up
- Sierra M, Young Artist Award Honorable Mention
- Izekiel D, Young Artist Award Honorable Mention
- Skylar P, Young Artist Award Honorable Mention
