Art from the Heart
2026 Theme: My Story
Deadline for submissions – September 18th
Every story matters. Every voice deserves to be heard.
Art from the Heart is Tidewater Friends of Foster Care’s annual art competition, inviting eligible TFFC youth to express themselves through creativity. This year’s theme, My Story, encourages you to share your journey, your passions, your dreams, your strengths, your memories, or simply what makes you you.
Your story is yours to tell. It doesn’t have to be about foster care—it can be about family, friendships, hobbies, challenges you’ve overcome, hopes for the future, a place that feels like home, or anything else that’s meaningful to you.
Create Your Way
There is no right or wrong way to tell your story. We welcome artwork in a variety of mediums, including but not limited to:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Photography
- Digital art
- Mixed media
- Poetry
- Creative writing
Whether you’ve been creating art for years or you’re trying something new for the first time, we encourage you to participate.
Why Enter?
Art from the Heart is about celebrating the creativity, talent, and individuality of the young people we serve. There are two catagories, ‘Artwork’ and ‘Written work’. The PRIZES for both categories are:
1st Place – $100 Amazon Gift Card
2nd Place – $75 Amazon Gift Card
3rd Place – $50 Amazon Gift Card
Honorable Mention – $25 Amazon Gift Card
All pieces will be displayed at our 2027 Gala and auctioned to raise funds for TFFC programs. Submissions may also be featured publications as well as in a public art exhibits to which you’ll be invited!
Be Inspired
Browse the gallery to the side to see incredible artwork created by participants from previous Art from the Heart competitions. Every piece reflects a different story, perspective, and creative voice… and yours could be next!
Tell Your Story
Your story is powerful because it’s yours. Whether it’s told with paint, a camera, words, clay, or another creative medium, we can’t wait to see how you bring My Story to life.
Now get creating!
Start creating your piece now and submit via the portal below before September 18th. Don’t have the tools you need to get started? We can provide a simple art-kit if needed. Please email emma.kolar@friendsoffostercare.org if you do need a kit in order to participate.
