The submission period is now open!

We're celebrating Earth Day by creating artwork that shows how public transit is helping to create a brighter, greener future.

About the Earth Day Youth Art Competition

Earth Day Youth Art CompetitionMTA invites youth ages 5 to 17 residing in Maryland to create original designs centered around environmental sustainability and the role of public transit in preserving our planet. If your artwork is selected, it will be featured on a limited-edition MTA bus!

Each artist may submit one piece of artwork. Designs must align with the Earth Day theme, focusing on the role public transportation plays in protecting the planet, environmental conservation, and sustainability. Designs may also highlight Maryland’s unique landmarks, ecosystem, or local plants and animals.

Artwork created must be a 2-D drawing, illustration, or painting not to exceed 8.5" wide and 11" tall, submitted electronically as a .jpg or .pdf. Photographs, computer-generated, or computer-enhanced artwork will not be accepted.

Works will be judged based on original design and artistic composition. Submitted artwork must be original and cannot have been previously exhibited.

Make sure you read all the rules on the entry form before you submit.

Show us how public transit helps keep our planet green! Enter the MTA Earth Day Art Contest and get a chance to have your artwork featured on a real MTA bus!

Who Can Enter?

Kids and teens ages 5-17 who live in Maryland.

What to Create?

Draw, paint, or illustrate an original piece of artwork that shows how public transit helps protect the environment. Your design can feature:

✅ Buses, trains, and other sustainable ways to travel
✅ Clean air, green spaces, and Maryland’s natural beauty
✅ The impact of transit in reducing traffic and pollution

How to Enter

  1. Create your artwork on paper no bigger than 8.5" x 11" (standard paper size).
  2. Take a clear photo or scan of your art.
  3. Upload your .jpg or .pdf file using the submission link below.
  4. Name your file like this: firstname-lastname-title.jpg (Example: jane-doe-greenearth.jpg).
  5. Submit your artwork by Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Cool Prizes!

Winning artwork will be wrapped on an MTA bus!
Finalists will be invited to a special Earth Day event to see their artwork revealed!

Submit Your Art Now

Toolkit

Previous Finalists

2025 Finalists2024 Finalists

Got questions? Email us at mtainfo@mta.maryland.gov.