2026 ART COMPETITION IS NOW OPEN.
About the Competition
This year's theme is: 🎨 A World of Colour
Now in its 43rd year, it's one of Ireland's longest-running and most inclusive art competitions, encouraging creativity at every stage of life.
We're inviting people of all ages to share their ideas through art. Whether bold and futuristic or thoughtful and personal, your creativity is what makes this competition special!
Who can enter?
The competition is open to everyone across two categories:
- General Category
- Additional Needs Category
Each category is broken down into five age groups (based on age on 31st December 2026):
- 7 years & under
- 8 to 10 years inclusive
- 11 to 13 years inclusive
- 14 to 17 years inclusive
- 18 years and over (Adult)
2026 Theme
🎨 A World of Colour
This year, we’re inviting participants to explore “A World of Colour” and let their creativity take centre stage.
The theme is all about celebrating the colours, experiences and perspectives that make our world unique. Entries can be inspired by:
- 🌿 Nature – landscapes, wildlife and the beauty around us
- 🌍 Culture – traditions, places and the people who shape our communities
- 💭 Imagination – creative ideas, colourful worlds and anything you can dream up
- ✨ Everyday moments – finding beauty in the little things around us
There are no limits to how you interpret the theme – so get creative, think outside the box and use your artwork to tell your own story!
How to enter
- Choose your category and age group
- Create your artwork (hand-drawn or painted - digital artwork will not be accepted)
- Complete the entry form below
- Submit your artwork and form to any of our offices (Portlaoise, Athy, Abbeyleix, Stradbally)
The deadline for entries is Friday 9th October 2026.
Judging and Prizes
Entries will be judged on:
- Originality
- Creativity
- Interpretation of the theme
Local winners will progress to the regional competition and then to the national stages of the competition, gaining recognition and winning prizes at every level!
Promotional Materials for Art Competition
Download official ILCU graphics below for integration with your social media and LMS!
