Registration for our 8th annual summer art contest is now open!
Registration fee includes a 4×12 canvas. Use the canvas to show your artistic abilities. Paint, collage, pencil, whatever suits your style.
Winning canvases will be selected to appear on special edition Books & Books @ The Studios bookmarks, which are given out with store purchase. Artists will even have the option to include their website and social media handles on the bookmark.
One grand prize winner will appear on a special edition bookmark, have their canvas show in the bookstore through the end of the year and receive a $25 Art Supply gift card from Books & Books.
Winners will be selected through two categories – the most online votes and the most in-person votes. The top two canvases with the most online votes will appear on a bookmark as will the canvas with the most in-store votes.
All contestants are eligible for the grand prize.
Some Details and FAQs:
- You can do whatever you like to the canvas even add 3D elements, but it must maintain its 4-inch by 12-inch diameters. (And keep in mind, if selected the piece will appear as a 2D image on the bookmark.)
- $15 Registration fee (8/15 through 9/12)
- $30 Registration fee (9/13 through 9/21)
- Click here for full terms and conditions.
Is there a theme?
We’re always excited to see work inspired by books but feel free to create any work you like.
How do I register my piece?
You can sign up online or by visiting Books and Books @ the Studios. Registration closes on the last day of drop off, Saturday, September 21st at 6pm. 
When does my piece need to be finished?
Work can be dropped off any time on Thursday 9/19, Friday 9/20, or Saturday, 9/21 between 10am and 6pm. Finished work must be received by 9/21 at 6pm. Email booksandbooks@tskw.org by Thursday 9/12 for drop off outside of these time and dates. Early work will not be accepted this year without prior arrangements.
Can I have my piece back?
Of course! Canvases can be picked up at the store 11/3 through 11/6, 10am-6pm. Email booksandbooks@tskw.org by Saturday 10/26 for pick up outside of these time and dates.
Will there be a show for the work?
Yes! The this year all of the work will be exhibited on the first floor of the Studios of Key West in the Zabar Project Gallery from 10/3/24 until 10/31/24. Join us for First Thursday, on 10/3 the opening of the Art Contest show from 6pm to 8pm.
When can people vote for my piece?
Visitors can vote for work in person and online from 10/3 to 10/31.
When will I know if I won?
Winners will be announced on Friday, November 1st. Voting will close at Midnight (Eastern) on October 31st.
Can I sell my piece?
Yes! Everyone has the option to put their piece up for sale. In the event of sale, the split will be 25/75 (75% to the artist).
Email us at booksandbooks@tskw.org with any other questions regarding the contest.