Welcome, fellow artists, to the thrilling, tail-wagging, and occasionally claw-scratching adventure of competing in an animal art contest! If you've ever dreamed of turning your love for art and the animal kingdom into a masterpiece that could make even a lion purr in approval, then you're in the right place. Whether you're an experienced wildlife artist or a curious creative soul who thinks drawing a giraffe’s neck is a piece of cake, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Choose Your Animal Muse (Fur, Feathers, or Scales?)
Before diving headfirst into the zoo art world, you need to pick your muse. Are you inspired by the noble stance of a tiger, the mischievous glint in a raccoon's eye, or the sheer chaos of a parrot who refuses to stay still? Choosing an animal that resonates with you will make your artistic journey more enjoyable and authentic.
Step 2: Pick Your Medium – The Art of Animal Artistry
Once you’ve chosen your furry, feathery, or scaly subject, it’s time to decide how you want to bring them to life. Animal paintings on canvas are a classic choice, giving you the freedom to capture the raw beauty of wildlife with acrylics, oils, or watercolors. However, don’t limit yourself—digital art, sculpture, or even mixed media are all welcome in many animal art contests.
Step 3: Find the Right Contest – A Call for Wild Artists!
Not all animal art contests are created equal. Some focus on realistic wildlife portraits, while others celebrate abstract and impressionistic takes on the art of animals. Do some research and look for contests that align with your style and artistic goals.
Places to find animal art contests:
Online platforms like Teravarna (shameless but well-deserved plug!)
Art foundations dedicated to wildlife conservation
Local and international zoo exhibitions
Art magazines and social media groups
Please read the guidelines carefully. Some contests have themes—such as endangered species awareness or animals in motion—that can inspire new artistic directions.
Step 4: Let Your Creativity Run Wild (But Stay Within the Rules!)
Now comes the fun part: creating your masterpiece! Let your creativity take center stage, but keep an eye on the contest rules. Some contests have size restrictions, submission format guidelines, or even specific color palettes (because apparently, not all giraffes can be purple—who knew?).
If you’re creating animal paintings on canvas, consider using different techniques to make your work stand out. Layering textures, experimenting with perspective, and playing with light can make your piece truly captivating.
Step 5: The Submission Process – Don’t Let a Missed Deadline Bite You!
Once your zoo art masterpiece is complete, it’s time to submit it. Double-check the contest requirements:
Does your submission meet the required dimensions and resolution?
Have you formatted it correctly (JPG, PNG, PDF, or actual physical submission)?
Is your artist statement engaging and well-written? (A short blurb about your inspiration can make a huge impact!)
Have you proofread your submission to avoid typos that might turn “majestic panther” into "majestic panther”?
Pro Tip: Some contests charge an entry fee, so budget accordingly. If you're new to the scene, look for free or low-cost competitions to get started.
Step 6: Promote Your Work – How to Roar in the Art Jungle!
Even if your entry doesn't bag the top prize, participating in an animal art contest is an achievement worth sharing! Use social media to showcase your work, engage with fellow artists, and get feedback. Who knows? Your painting of a sleepy sloth might go viral and make you the next big name in wildlife art.
Some ways to promote your work:
Post your piece on Instagram, tagging relevant art pages
Create a time-lapse video of your process
Engage with other artists in zoo art communities
Offer limited-edition prints for sale (because everyone needs a sophisticated llama portrait in their living room)
Step 7: Celebrate Your Wins (Even the Small Ones!)
Winning an animal art contest is amazing, but even if you don’t place first, remember that every contest is a learning experience. Constructive feedback from judges, exposure to different styles, and the sheer joy of creating something meaningful are all wins in their own right.
Conclusion: Ready to Take on the Animal Art World?
Whether you’re painting a roaring lion, a curious raccoon, or a dignified penguin, participating in an animal art contest is an exciting way to showcase your talent and passion for wildlife. From finding the right inspiration to nailing the submission process, this guide has hopefully given you all the tools you need to jump into the world of animal paintings on canvas with confidence.
