Does flying make you dream? Yes? Then pick up your pens, pencils or brushes and enter the 2017 FAI Young Artists Contest to reach for the clouds. The aim is to create a picture that illustrates this years’ theme “Beyond the Clouds”, and to show us your vision through your eyes!
Youngsters from three age categories: Junior (6-9), Intermediate (10-13), Senior (14-17) are invited to participate.
We live beneath the clouds. We look up and see them stand stationary or speed across the sky. We see them reflect the bright colors of the sunrise or sunset. They turn dark and purple, letting us know a storm is coming. We see almost every aspect of clouds, except what they look like from above.
Above the clouds is a space known only to those who dare to break the bounds of earth. Some soar in hot air balloons, gliders and hang gliders, floating across the sky with the clouds. Others fly in planes, as pilots or passengers, watching the clouds and earth race by below. Specially trained pilots in rugged aircraft fly into storm clouds, taking measurements that help those on the ground predict where the storm will go. Those in helicopters can stand still, like clouds on a still day, or can fly across the sky high and low. Aerobatic pilots love clear skies, so those below can watch their amazing feats of flight. Intrepid aviators on the ground send up weather balloons almost to space, both for science and for the amazing pictures that can be taken only when you get above the clouds.
The world of aviation is always changing as each new generation of pilots and designers bring their vision of flight to the world. Now it’s your time to grab your favorite art supplies and turn your imagination loose. Create a work of art that celebrates the adventures and excitement only available in that special place beyond the clouds.
The contest takes place in two phases, the details of which can be found below. You should first check the details and the deadline for submission of your work by contacting the FAI member in your country. Each country will select the three best illustrations in each category: Junior (6-9), Intermediate (10-13), Senior (14-17) and forward them to the FAI by 1 April 2017. An International Jury will then select the world winners in each category who will be rewarded respectively with Gold, Silver or Bronze FAI medals.
The artwork will be exhibited at the prestigious Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, USA and may be used by the FAI on other occasions.
The FAI Young Artists has been organised each year since 1986 to promote air sports amongst youth, to raise awareness of the different aspects of aviation whilst at the same time providing the opportunity to show off skills and personality through art.
FAI Members organise either a national competition or another similar process of selection for the young people resident in their respective countries. The national winning paintings are then submitted to the International Jury. A different theme is chosen every year to inspire the young artists and reflect the many facets of air sports.