The Virgin Islands Public Works Department has announced a new art competition for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Titled “If I Worked for Public Works,” the initiative invites young residents to submit original artwork depicting what they would build, fix, or improve to benefit their community.
According to Sheeniqua Venzen, strategic specialist at DPW, the competition was designed as a way to give back to the children of the Virgin Islands during National Public Works Week, which occurs from May 17 to May 23.
“DPW plays a major role in shaping our daily lives from roads and drainage to public facilities. We believe it is crucial to engage young minds and give them a chance to express how they see the future of our infrastructure. There are very few territory-wide opportunities like this, and we wanted to create a space where children can showcase their creativity and feel connected to their community,” Venzen said.
Students are given full creative freedom in their submissions; artwork may depict either realistic infrastructure improvements or imaginative, futuristic concepts. “We are excited to see how children interpret that. As noted on the flyer, both real and imagined ideas are welcomed,” Venzen said. Acceptable media include drawing, painting, and collage. All artwork must be no larger than 11×14 inches, and students must write their name, grade, and school on the back of each entry.
The submission deadline is May 4 and artwork must be submitted electronically using this submission link.
Participating schools in the St. Thomas-St. John district includes Jane E. Tuitt, Joseph Gomez, Joseph Sibilly, Yvonne Milliner-Bowsky, Ulla F. Muller, Julius E. Sprauve, and Lockhart Elementary. In the St. Croix district, Pearl B. Larsen, Juanita Gardine, Lew Muckle, Ricardo Richards, Alfredo Andrews, Eulalie Rivera, and Claude O. Markoe will be participating.
Judging will be based on creativity, effort, and connection to the theme. Cash prizes of $100 will be awarded to winners in each grade group (K-1, 2-3, and 4-5). All participants will receive certificates, and selected winner’s artwork will be displayed during DPW Week. The community will be able to view selected artworks on all DPW platforms when winners are officially announced during DPW Week on May 19.
“It is a great opportunity for students to express themselves creatively while learning about the role the DPW plays in our community, as well as recognizing the hardworking employees who help maintain and improve our community,” Venzen said.
Students who are participating can submit their artwork by clicking here.
For questions, educators and parents may contact DPW at dpwcommunications@dpw.vi.gov.
