Governor Rell: Connecticut Celebrating Young Artists

in Honor of 375^th Anniversary

Statewide Art Contest Open to Ages 9-11 Years Old;

Deadline for Submissions is May 15

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the launch of a statewide young artist contest as part of the yearlong celebration of Connecticut’s 375h Anniversary. Youngsters, ages 9-11, will be asked to submit artwork that best depicts a Connecticut landmark, location or other subjects that are classic Connecticut.

“It has been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. That means this art contest will speak volumes about what we love best about Connecticut,” Governor Rell said. “This is a wonderful opportunity for all the budding Rembrandts and da Vincis in Connecticut to add their special flair to this special year.”

Fifteen finalists will have their artwork displayed on the state’s 375^th Web site – www.ct375.com – and in the state Capitol throughout the month of June.  The finalists will be invited to meet the governor and the five artists receiving the most votes will each receive a $100 U.S. Savings Bond. Voting will be done online by the public through the www.ct375.com Web site. The top-vote getter will be announced on June 10. All artwork received will go into a permanent collection of items celebrating the 375^th Anniversary.

Artwork can be drawn, colored or painted and must be submitted on an 8 ½ by 11 sheet of paper. Deadline for submissions is May 15. No sculptures, videos or photographs will be considered. For rules and application forms, contact: artcontest@ct375.com

To help promote Connecticut’s 375^th Anniversary, the Governor assembled a commission of historians, educators, arts and culture representatives, fund-raisers and others. The 375^th Anniversary Commission is planning events that involve local schools, state parks, the arts community, museums and oral historians.

Services and items related to the state’s year long 375^th anniversary celebration are donated or purchased with donated funds.  Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.  Go to www.CT375.com for more information and to donate.

More information on 375^th Anniversary events can be also be found at:

• http://twitter.com/Connecticut375
• http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hartford-CT/Connecticuts-375thAnniversary/10150113573780463?ref=ts
• http://www.youtube.com/user/ct375