St. Augustine, Fla. (April 20, 2020) – Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, Betty Griffin Center is extending the date to accept submissions from St. Johns County Students for the 2021 ‘A Day Without Violence’ Art and Poetry Contest through May 31, 2020.

Also, instead of using the usual drop-off locations, further submissions must be mailed to the attention of Betty Griffin Center Event Coordinator Kenlie Kubart, at Betty Griffin Center’s Main Outreach Office – located at 2450 Old Moultrie Rd., Suite 202, St. Augustine, Florida 32086.

The project is open to all St. Johns County students in kindergarten through 12th grade, whether they attend public school, private school or are home-school. Last year, there were more than 1,000 entries.

“With so many students now quarantined at home, many with their parents as well, we wanted to extend the deadline so the children, along with their parents and teachers, will have this arts outlet available to them,” said Betty Griffin Center CEO Joyce Mahr. “Expressing themselves through their art and poetry is a great way to channel some energy into a positive activity during this stressful time.”

Prizes are awarded to the winners, who are selected by a group of independent artists:

  • 1st Place — $50.00
  • 2nd Place — $25.00
  • 11 honorable mentions will be presented $10.00 each

Judges select the winning entries based on their effectiveness in conveying a positive impression of peacefulness and cooperation, artistic merit, originality, diversity of images and geographical diversity within St. Johns County.

The winners will receive special recognition during a St. Johns County School Board Meeting, and have their artwork displayed at a local art gallery throughout October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. All 13 winning artists and 12 poets will have their work reproduced in the Betty Griffin Center ‘A Day Without Violence 2021 Calendar.’

Contestants can print out the contest application and registration form at https://bettygriffincenter.org/day-without-violence-calendar-contest/.

To be eligible, artwork must be in color and able to be reproduced at 8 x 10 and suitable for framing (horizontal format only). All original 2D media is acceptable. The theme “A Day Without Violence” must be reflected in the art or words. An entry form must accompany each piece of art.

For more information, contact Kenlie Kubart at 904.808.8544, extension 207, or email kenliek@bettygriffincenter.org.

Any businesses or other donors interested in sponsoring the printing of the calendar should contact the Betty Griffin Center at info@bettygriffincenter.org.