09/10/2025
Hello All: RESP is running a competition for Primary and Secondary students with prizes to be won... please select picture poster to see and read below for criteria, good luck all...
Name of Competition:
"Art of Wellbeing: Colours of the Mind"
Theme:
“My Happy Place” – Students are encouraged to create artworks that represent a space, activity, or feeling that brings them peace, joy, or comfort. This encourages reflection on what supports their mental wellbeing.
Objectives:
• Promote mental health awareness and emotional expression in children.
• Encourage creativity and self-reflection through art.
• Provide a platform for students to share positive messages and coping strategies.
• Create a nurturing, inclusive school culture that celebrates mental health.
Target Group:
Primary School Students (Ages 6–12), divided into two age categories:
• Category A: Ages 6–8
• Category B: Ages 9–12
Art Mediums:
Students can use:
• Drawing (pencil, crayon, charcoal)
• Painting (watercolour, acrylic, tempera)
• Collage or mixed media
Submission Guidelines:
• Each student submits one original piece.
• Title and a brief artist’s statement (2–3 sentences) explaining how their artwork relates to
mental health or their “happy place.”
• Size limit: A3 or smaller.
Judging Criteria:
1. Creativity & Originality (30%)
2. Relevance to Theme (30%)
3. Emotional Expression (20%)
4. Effort & Technique (20%)
Bonus consideration for inclusion of kind messages or coping strategies (e.g., “I draw when I’m sad” or “I go outside to feel calm.”)
A panel of three RESP members will review the finalists and announce the winners.
We anticipate the competition will run over a 4 week period if you include the below integration.
Mental Health Integration:
• Art & Emotion Workshops: Pre-competition sessions where students explore feelings, colours, and how art can express emotions.
• Mindfulness Moments: Short guided mindfulness or breathing sessions before creating the artwork.
• Art Gallery Walk: Final artworks displayed with affirmations and positive mental health facts in a school hallway or digital gallery.
Awards & Recognition:
• Certificates of Participation for all.
• Winners: Top 3 in each category receive a $50 REBA voucher and a “Young Mental Health Ambassador” badge.
• Special Awards:
o “Kindest Message”
o “Most Uplifting Image”
o “Best Use of Colour to Show Emotion”
Partnership Suggestions:
• We would love it if you could collaborate with local mental health organisations for resources or guest speakers.
• Please involve school counsellors or psychologists in planning and reviewing content.
Name of Competition:
“Art of Wellbeing: Colours of the Mind”
Theme:
“This Is Me” – Students are invited to explore and express their true selves — who they are beneath the surface, what shapes their identity, and how they navigate the highs and lows of life. Through colour, imagery, and symbolism, students can map their mental health journey, highlighting their strengths, challenges, and what helps them stay resilient and well.
Objectives:
• Promote mental health awareness and emotional expression in children.
• Encourage creativity and self-reflection through art.
• Provide a platform for students to share positive messages and coping strategies.
• Create a nurturing, inclusive school culture that celebrates mental health.
Target Group:
Secondary School Students (Years 7–12), divided into three age categories:
• Category A: Years 7–8
• Category B: Years 9–10
• Category C: Years 11–12
Creative Mediums:
Students may choose one of the following categories:
1. Visual Arts:
Drawing, painting, digital art, photography, or mixed media.
2. Written Word:
Poetry, short story (max 500 words), or spoken word script.
3. Media & Performance:
Short video (1–3 minutes), original song, or performance art (e.g. monologue, dance video, etc.)
Submission Guidelines:
• One original entry per student.
• A title and a brief artist’s/writer’s/performer’s statement (max 100 words) explaining the link to the theme and mental wellbeing.
• Visual and written works must be A3 or smaller (digital formats acceptable).
• Video or performance pieces must be under 3 minutes and submitted digitally.
Judging Criteria:
1. Creativity & Originality – 30%
2. Relevance to Theme & Message – 30%
3. Emotional Impact – 20%
4. Effort & Technical Skill – 20%
Bonus consideration for positive messaging or personal strategies for wellbeing (e.g. “I journal to stay grounded” or “I stay connected to culture.”)
A panel of three RESP members will review the finalists and announce the winners.
We anticipate the competition will run over a 4 week period if you include the below integration.
Mental Health Integration:
• Reflection Journals or Class Discussion Prompts: Encourage students to reflect on identity, challenges, and supports before starting.
• Creative Breakout Sessions: Wellbeing-focused classes with art therapists, writers, or youth workers.
• Student Voice Circle: Optional drop-in sessions where students can safely share stories or brainstorm ideas.
• Showcase Exhibition/Performance Night: Create a space for families and peers to celebrate entries – live or virtual.
Awards & Recognition:
• Certificates of Participation for all.
• Winners: Top 3 in each category receive a $100 REBA voucher and a “Young Mental Health Ambassador” badge.
• Special Awards:
o “Most Powerful Message”
o “Most Courageous Expression”
o “Best Cultural or Identity Reflection”
Partnership Suggestions:
• Collaborate with local youth mental health services or artists for workshops (e.g. RDHS, MVAC).
