Cumberland Times-News

September 5, 2010

State judiciary seeking young artists for contest

From Staff Reports
Cumberland Times-News

— ANNAPOLIS — The Maryland Judiciary is looking for young artists to help promote peacemaking through art. Therefore, it is inviting Maryland pupils, in grades from kindergarten through eight, to submit artwork for the fifth Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest. The contest is sponsored by the Maryland Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) in observance of National Conflict Resolution Day on  Oct. 21.

Artwork for the contest should reflect the theme of resolving or preventing conflict. With that theme, entries artwork might address peer mediation, talking things out, apologizing, respecting differences, solving problems together, listening, tolerance, building peace or alternatives to violence.

Submissions are due by Oct. 1. Original artwork may be submitted using a template available on MACRO’s website, www.mdcourts.gov/macro, or on any paper format. The finished image size should be no larger than 3 inches high by 9 inches wide.

Entries will be judged on creativity and the message conveyed. Entries may be mailed or delivered to MACRO, 903 Commerce Road, Annapolis, MD, 21401.   

Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place in three age groups: kindergarten-second grade; third-fifth grade; and sixth-eighth grade. The prize for each age group is $75 for first place; $50 for second place; and $25 for third place. In addition to the prizes, three to five entries may be selected to be printed as bookmarks to promote conflict resolution across Maryland.

The art will be displayed at the Robert C. Murphy Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis from Oct. 21-Nov. 20. Winning students and their families will be honored at a ceremony and reception at the Courts of Appeal Building at 4 p.m. on Oct. 21. Chief Judge Robert M. Bell of the Maryland Court of Appeals will present the awards.

For more information, contact Alecia Parker, 410-260-3540, or alecia.parker@mdcourts.gov.