Picturing Freedom is a nationwide poster contest that will present winning posters on Artwork for Freedom’s website as well as in a pop up exhibit in a Washington, D.C. gallery during the month of October, 2017.

The Subject: Human Trafficking. It is estimated that over 21 million people around the world are victims of forced labor of all kinds. That’s today, in 2017. From the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the goods we buy and even some of the people we meet, exploited and forced into the commercial sex industry, forced labor touches us in ways we try not to imagine.
We invite professional and student artists, illustrators and graphic designers to create visually innovative and provocative interpretations of human trafficking and the myriad issues related to its proliferation.  We challenge you to:
• Get beyond stereotypes and clichés
• See victims with empathy
• Avoid stigmatizing, sensationalizing and inauthentic imagery
• Incorporate the National Human Trafficking phone number: 1-888-373-7888
This is an opportunity to unleash your creative imagination and address one of the most important human rights issues of our day!

Awards:
Grand-prize winner: $1,000
First prize – professional category:    $400
First prize – student category:            $200
2 Honorable mentions – professional:  $50 gift certificate each
2 Honorable mentions – student: Art supplies

Deadline: September 8, 2017
Final deadline:  Sept 8 – 11:59 PM EDT
File Sizes and Formats:
High res files reproducible in print up to 22 (h) x 16 (w) inches (1600 x 1080 at 300 dpi, not to exceed 5 MB).  Acceptable file formats are: jpg and tiff.
USE: The winning posters will be featured on ArtWorks for Freedom’s website, and in communications and publicity for ArtWorks for Freedom. They will be used for all media and press purposes, including promotional materials, interviews, press conferences, etc.
FINAL FORMATS: The winning poster will be reproduced in a range of sizes up to a 22 (h) x 16 (w) inches poster.

ArtWorks for Freedom uses all forms of artistic expression to raise awareness about modern day slavery and human trafficking. Working locally and globally and engaging art in all its forms, we are transforming public perceptions, educating individuals, communities and policy makers, and inspiring action to put an end to modern day slavery.
VisArts, located in the heart of Rockville, Maryland, is a hub for the visual arts that engages nearly 30,000 visitors annually through gallery exhibitions, education programs, a studio artist program, and events. Founded in 1987, VisArts is committed to a mission of transforming individuals and communities through the visual arts.

Application fee: $30.00 USD for professionals, $5.00 USD for students