Creative Competitions – Los Angeles Links Inc.

Unity Through Art

2026 Creative Arts Competition

Competition Guidelines

The Los Angeles (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, invites high school students in grades 9–12 to participate in the 2026 Creative Competition, themed “Unity Through Art.” Students are encouraged to explore how art can bring people together, foster understanding, and reflect shared experiences. This competition provides students with an opportunity to express their ideas, experiences, and perspectives through artistic expression while competing for awards and recognition.

All entries must be submitted electronically by March 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM (PST). Selected winners will advance to the National Creative Competition sponsored by The Links, Incorporated.

Eligibility

Students enrolled in grades 9 – 12
Original and unpublished works only
Submissions may not include profanity or explicit sexual content

Competition Categories

Poetry: Submission must include a collection of three (3) poems
Essays: Three (3) pages maximum (No biographies or research papers)
Short Stories: Maximum word count of 750
Dance: Maximum of a three-minute dance performance of any genre
Music: Maximum of a three-minute instrumental or vocal performance
Drama: Maximum of a three-minute skit/monologue/Spoken Word performance

Awards

1st Place: $250
2nd Place: $150
3rd Place: $100
Honorable Mention: $50

Submission Deadline

March 1, 2026
11:59 PM (Pacific Standard Time)

Late or incomplete submissions will not be reviewed.

Submission Guidelines

Rules and Guidelines

All entries must be submitted electronically using the official submission form. Email and paper submissions will not be accepted. A completed Permission to Publish, Media Release, and Teacher/Program Coordinator/Adult Sponsor Verification Form must accompany ALL entries. All participants must complete the required forms before submitting an entry. These documents must be uploaded during the submission process. Students may submit one entry per category. A separate submission form is required for each entry.

How to Submit

Review Submission Checklist
Complete all required forms – Click on forms below
Upload your entry and documents through the submission portal – Click Submission below.

Media Release Form

Coordinator Verification

Permission to Publish Form

Submission Checklist