The Meridian Museum of Art has announced a new writing contest called “Art Speaks, We Write,” aimed at engaging the community through creative expression inspired by the museum’s permanent collection. In collaboration with the Mississippi Writers Guild, the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance, and The Montgomery Institute, the contest invites participants of all ages—youth in grades 6-12 and adults—to respond to selected artworks through poetry, prose, or digitally recorded songwriting.
Participants are encouraged to begin with close observation of the artwork and can deepen their responses by researching the artist, historical context, or cultural themes. According to Richelle Putnam, project director, the contest aims to encourage participants to “slow down, look closely, and engage with the stories preserved inside the Meridian Museum of Art’s permanent collection.”
This initiative seeks to foster curiosity and research skills among youth, helping them uncover the deeper histories behind the art. “Through this contest, we are strengthening the connection between visual art and the written word while nurturing the next generation of storytellers,” added Putnam.
Kate Cherry, executive director of the Meridian Museum of Art, highlighted the educational benefits of the contest. “Relating visual art to literature strengthens critical thinking and creative expression,” she explained. By connecting artwork to writing, participants are encouraged to ask questions and explore artistic choices, enhancing their own creative processes.
The contest features three age categories:
– Youth (Grades 6-8)
– Youth (Grades 9-12)
– Adult (18+)
Participants can submit their works in various formats:
– Poetry (maximum 32 lines)
– Prose (maximum 500 words)
– Digitally Recorded Song (maximum 4 minutes)
Cash prizes range from $25 to $150 for youth entries and $50 to $175 for adult submissions. Winning entries will receive monetary awards and certificates, with their works displayed alongside the corresponding artwork that inspired them. Honorable mentions will also be awarded certificates.
The contest will open on March 1, 2026, and close on March 27, 2026. Judging will conclude on April 5, 2026, and an awards ceremony will take place on April 11, 2026, at the Meridian Museum of Art. Entry into the contest is free, and guidelines along with entry forms are available at the Meridian Museum of Art or online at www.mississippiwritersguild.com under Events: Art Speaks, We Write.
This event is made possible through an Individual Artist Grant awarded to Richelle Putnam by the Mississippi Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. The initiative reflects a commitment to fostering creativity and artistic dialogue within the community, bridging the gap between visual and written arts.
