The #BrookhavenStrong art contest, hosted by the City of Brookhaven, is calling for submissions that reflect gratitude toward essential workers, community pride, and patriotism in a time of unprecedented social isolation.

Open to all skill levels, the contest is a way to share a sense of togetherness, despite social distancing mandates. Subject matter of the submitted pieces can be anything that depicts appreciation for those who serve the community during the pandemic: doctors, nurses, first responders, sanitation, food delivery and others.

Submissions can be produced using any medium including colorings, painting, sketches, sculptures, chalk art and graphic art and must incorporate the hashtag #BrookhavenStrong.

“We wanted to give our artists an outlet to show their appreciation for those helping us every day and to honor and capture their bravery and courage. The goal is for the art to not only show the hope we are feeling, but also serve as a heartfelt, artistic ‘thank you’ to those serving on the front lines of the COVID-19 battle,” says District 1 Councilwoman Linley Jones.

Elizabeth Peterson, director of the OU Museum of Art, is chair of the Arts Advisory Committee for Brookhaven, home of Oglethorpe University.

Gift cards for future use at local restaurants, courtesy of Explore Brookhaven, will be awarded as prizes in five age groups in increments of $100, $50 and $25. Winners will be featured on social media and city news publications and honored at a Brookhaven City Council meeting when public restrictions are lifted.

Photos of the artwork should be submitted via e-mail to [email protected] by April 17 at 5 PM. More information can be found on the City of Brookhaven website.