Reflections

ARTIST FAQ
Can I submit more than one project?

Absolutely! Students may submit as many projects as they like, in as many arts categories as they like.

Can I submit a project with a partner or team?

No. Each entry must be the original work of one student only. An adult may not alter the creative integrity of a student's work. Because the program is designed to encourage and recognize each student's individual creativity, help from an adult or collaboration with other students is not allowed except in the Special Artist Division. Other individuals may appear in or perform a student's work, but the work itself must be the creative product of one student only. Only one student may be recognized as the award recipient for each entry. See specific arts category rules and special artist division rules for details.

Can my parents help with my project?

See answer to question above.

Do I have to write an "artist's statement"?

Yes. This is required for each entry. Qualifying entries must include a project title and artist statement. The artist statement communicates what inspired the work, how it relates to the theme, and the content of the work. The statement must include at least 10 words and not exceed 100 words.

What is the judging criteria for projects advancing to the next level?

1) Interpretation - How closely the piece relates to the theme, based on the artwork itself and the artist statement. (The artist statement -- which is part of the Entry Form -- is very important!)

2) Creativity - How creative and original the piece is in its conception of the theme and its presentation.

3) Technique - The level of skill demonstrated in the basic principles / techniques of the arts area.

MORE ABOUT REFLECTIONS
The Reflections Program was established in 1969 by the National PTA. Since that time, more than 10 million students have participated in this annual program.

The PTA Reflections Program is an arts recognition and achievement program for students. A theme is given and students can submit work in one of the categories.  Participation and appreciation for the arts is the Reflections Program's goal. Although the Reflections Program follows a "contest" format, winning is not the emphasis.

State of Illinois Reflections Website

GET CREATIVE!

ENTRIES ARE DUE ON NOVEMBER 3, 2023!

The Reflections Program was established in 1969 by the National PTA. Since that time, more than 10 million students have participated in this annual program.

The theme for 2023-2024 is "I Am Hopeful Because...".

The PTA Reflections Program is an arts recognition and achievement program for students. A theme is given and students can submit work in one of the categories.  Participation and appreciation for the arts is the Reflections Program's goal. Although the Reflections Program follows a "contest" format, winning is not the emphasis.  

Young artists may submit an entry in any of the six arts areas listed below. There also is a special artist division option for students with disabilities to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in the program. Only original works of art are accepted. It does not matter whether an entry created for the Reflections Program has been created as a classroom assignment or independently at home.  Only individual, original works of art are accepted. No group projects are allowed. Once judged at the local level, the winners go on to the council and/or district judging. Those winners go to the Illinois PTA to receive recognition.   

The six arts areas for each category are listed below. 

  • Dance Choreography 
  • Music Composition 
  • Photography 
  • Visual Arts
  • Literature 
  • Film Production 
  • Special Artist  

Any questions? Please email the Bryan Middle School PTA (bryanmiddleschoolpta205@gmail.com).

Click here for the State of Illinois Reflection Website.

ENTRIES ARE DUE NOVEMBER 3, 2023!

ENTRIES ARE DUE NOVEMBER 3, 2023!

Rules for each categories are linked below. Please carefully read the rules for specific categories. Failure to submit a proper entry form or follow specific arts category rules could disqualify a project.

RULES (ENGLISH)

CÓMO INGRESAR (SPANISH)

Each project submission must include an official entry form. More information on the PTA Reflections competition can be accessed on the Elmhurst PTA Council website.