University of Florida Student Art Contest
About the Contest
The Connections to the Blue Challenge is an art contest that asks students to use science and research to create art that inspires conversations about coastal issues and expresses their connections and appreciation for the ocean. Hosted by Florida Sea Grant (FSG), this contest honors the storied career of Dr. Guy Harvey and the history of FSG and the Guy Harvey Foundation working together to support student research.
Awards & Recognition
First and Second Place will receive a cash prize and their art will be displayed at Florida Sea Grant headquarters, on University of Florida’s main campus. First Place will receive $1,500. Second place will receive $500.
The awards will be presented on September 16, 2026 between 5:30-8:30 PM ET at the Harn Museum during the Florida Sea Grant event, “Guy Harvey: A Film Screening & Student Showcase”.
Eligibility:
The entrant must be currently enrolled in a University of Florida degree program. Proof of enrollment is required.
Contest & Artwork Rules:
- There is no fee to enter the contest
- Contestants must meet eligibility requirement(s)
- All entries must be submitted by the deadline: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 11:59 PM ET
- Participants may submit up to two art pieces, each with their own entry form
- Individual submissions only, no group submissions
- All art must be the original work by the contestant and shall not infringe on copyrights or third parties
- Artwork must be 2D (such as drawing, painting, printmaking) or 3D (such as sculpting, textiles, mixed media). Traditional or physical media only, no digital media.
- Artwork created solely by a 3D printer is not eligible
- Photography is not eligible
- Statement of purpose: A 100-200 word description of the contestant’s artwork, how it incorporates coastal issues, and how it is personal to the contestant.
- No minimum or maximum size requirements for the artwork
- Artwork and statement of purpose cannot contain nudity or any explicit content
- Entries that do not comply with these rules will be disqualified
- All applications will be judged fairly and ethically by a panel of at least 3 individuals
- Winners will be contacted via email no later than September 10, 2026, before any public announcements are made
Rights:
The applicant agrees that Florida Sea Grant will retain the submitted artwork and written description, which may be used to promote the contest, Florida Sea Grant, or the Sea Grant network in all media worldwide in perpetuity.
How to Apply:
- Complete the entry form here
- Upload a high-resolution photo (.jpg, or .png) of your art
- Submit materials before the deadline: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 11:59 PM ET