Calling all young writers. Portsmouth Historical Society announces a new Young Writers Contest linked to the hugely successful art exhibition now running at Discover Portsmouth. And it begins today.
“The community has responded so well to the Gertrude Fiske art exhibit that we’ve added a special new program. We want our kids to be a part of that show before it ends,” says Claire Spollen, the society’s Education Coordinator who designed the contest.
“Our goal is to find new ways to inspire a broader audience to learn something about history, arts or culture in an interesting way,“ she says
Here’s how it works.
Attention writers! First, you select one work of art by Gertrude Fiske now on display at Discover Portsmouth. Spend a little time getting to know your favorite work of art, then write a short piece about it–or inspired by it. You can create a poem or maybe a story. You might come up with a play, a conversation, a newspaper article, or use any writing style you like best. The only rule is– the writing you enter into the contest should relate in some way to your favorite work by Gertrude Fiske.
Submissions will be divided into three age groups –Grades 3 – 5, Grades 6-8 and Grades 9-12. Participants should indicate theirgrade level for the 2018-2019 school year. Paper entries may be mailed (see post office address below) or be dropped off at Discover Portsmouth during open hours (9:30am to 5 pm daily) or emailed Claire@portsmouthhistory.org. All entries must be submitted (and postmarked) by midnight on Saturday, September 22.
A panel of friendly judges will read and evaluate each entry on its content, creativity, expression, clarity, quality, and connection to the original artwork. A first prize and honorable mention will be awarded in each division at a ceremony on September 28 at Discover Portsmouth. The exhibition closes on September 30.
“I’m excited about engaging all ages, but especially the school-age population,” Claire Spollen adds. “The joy is in inspiring kids to engage with something they don’t immediately understand and then realize– they know more than they think.”
Details on the contest can be found at portsmouthhistory.org/portsmouth-historical-society-young-writers-contest. Special thanks to contest sponsors, Flatbreads and Summer Sessions for their participation.
Submissions may be mailed to:
Claire Spollen
Young Writers Contest
Portsmouth Historical Society
PO Box 728
Portsmouth, NH 03802