Orthodox Youth Invited to Honor 35 Years of His All‑Holiness’ Leadership and Love for God’s Creation Through Original Artwork
The Archon Ecumenical Patriarchate Global Initiative (The Sprouts Program) announces the inaugural Ecumenical Patriarch Poster Contest, inviting Orthodox students ages 5–18 to create original artwork celebrating His All‑Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s 35 years of spiritual leadership and his unwavering commitment to protecting God’s creation as the Green Patriarch.
As this is the first year of the contest, parishes and schools nationwide are warmly encouraged to participate and inspire young artists to express their faith, creativity, and love for God’s world. Eligible participants include Sunday School students from all Orthodox jurisdictions under the spiritual guidance of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, as well as students in Orthodox Christian K–12 schools and other Christian schools with a strong Orthodox presence.
While twelve artworks—across three age categories—will be specially recognized for creativity and effort, the primary purpose of this inaugural contest is to inspire participation, cultivate artistic expression, and encourage young people to honor the Ecumenical Patriarch’s remarkable legacy.
“The Ecumenical Patriarch Poster Contest is an opportunity to encourage creativity, celebrate youth, and highlight the talents of our precious Orthodox students from across the country,” said Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, National Commander of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. “We are excited to recognize these young artists during Archon Weekend, October 15–18, 2026, in New York City.”
For questions on contest rules or other details please contact: sprouts@archons.org
Hand‑Drawn Poster Contest Rules
Submission Requirements • Traditional hand‑drawn posters must be scanned and uploaded as a PDF. • Scanned files should be flat, straight, and properly cropped. • Photographs are discouraged due to quality and distortion issues.
Size • Posters should meet state contest size requirements. • 8 × 10 inches is preferred for durability and ease of handling.
Media • Any traditional media may be used: paint, crayon, colored pencil, charcoal, stickers, paper, or other materials. • Mixed‑media artwork is welcome.
Originality • Posters must be created by one individual student; team submissions are not permitted. • Tracing or copying from photographs or other artists’ work is not allowed. • AI‑generated content is not permitted for this contest.
Theme Requirement • The 2026 theme phrase, “The Green Patriarch,” must appear in full on the front of each poster to qualify for judging.
Student Support • Younger students may receive planning guidance from parents or teachers, but each student should complete their own artwork.
Poster Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be judged according to the following criteria:
- Conservation Message (50%) Effectively communicates the theme and presents a clear conservation message.
- Visual Effectiveness (30%) — Eye‑catching, well‑organized, and visually appealing design. Artwork must include symbols or references to Orthodoxy.
- Originality (10%) Demonstrates creativity, imagination, and fresh ideas.
- Universal Appeal (10%) Easily understood and appealing to a broad audience.
