“An Artistic Salute To The Harlem Renaissance” Artistic Video Essay Contest

“Exploring the Influence of the Harlem Renaissance Through the Eyes of Our Youth”

Share your artistic essay through video in any artistic form! Open to all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students in Kaufman and Rockwall Counties interested in all aspects of the arts, including authors, composers, musicians, vocalists, poets, theatrics, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can enter?

The contest is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in Kaufman and Rockwall Counties interested in all aspects of the arts, including authors, composers, musicians, vocalists, poets, theatrics, etc.

When is the deadline for submissions?

All entries must be uploaded by 11:59 pm (CST) on Friday, May 7, 2021.

What will I be judged on?

The artistic essays will be judged on a weighted scale (40% essay topic content; 40% artistic expression; 20% clarity of expression).

What are the prizes?

Grand Prize – Tuition Free Participation in the Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s Summer Enrichment Youth Dance Workshop 2021 OR a Digital Content Package (AKASO EK7000 4K WiFi Action Camera, 10” Ring Light, and $100.00 Stipend).

For more information on DBDT’s 2020 Summer Enrichment Camp, visit https://dbdt.com/academy/summer-enrichment/

Will I receive feedback on my video entry?

Due to the number of entries, only the winning videos will receive feedback on the content of their entry.

When will the winner be chosen?

The Grand Prize winner will be notified by Monday, May 24, 2021.

What forms do I need to fill out, and where should I send them?

You will need to fill out the online Student Entry Form when you upload your video (you’ll be prompted to the form after you click the “Upload” button). Your parent/guardian must also submit the online Parental/Guardian Consent Form before your entry can be accepted for the contest. The winning video CANNOT be awarded a prize unless the necessary forms are received.

How many entries can I submit?

Only ONE submission permitted for each contestant.

In what format should I submit my essay?

All essay submissions must be in the form of a video (.mp4, .mov, .avi, or .wmv) with resolution of at least 720p. 1920p by 1080p is recommended.

How do I submit my video?

Once you have perfected your video, you can email it to aaooarts@gmail.com or upload it using the Student Entry Form. First, fill out the online entry form information. Then, you’ll need to browse your computer files, choose your video, and upload just as you would an email attachment. Let us know if you have any technical problems.

What equipment do I need?

You can use any equipment or editing software that you have. Remember that we are judging entries based more on content than on style, and so you shouldn’t worry if you don’t have experience with these technologies. You can make a great video with even the most basic equipment.

Do I need to cite my sources?

The video must be new, original work created by the contestant.

Can I use copyrighted materials?

No copyrighted materials (music, images, etc.) may be used for this contest unless you own the copyright or have a license to use the material. Written permission must be obtained and provided upon request for all copyrighted materials.

Can entries be disqualified?

Yes. If there is inappropriate content, use of copyrighted materials, problems with length, or lack of the appropriate forms, we will have to disqualify your entry. If you are unsure whether an item is copyrighted or inappropriate, consult with your parents or teachers. If there are still questions, just don’t use it. Better safe than sorry!

How involved can parents be?

This is a middle school student contest, and therefore, all of the research, writing, and editing should be done by students. Parents can hold the camera while you perform. Please also allow your parents to view the video before submitting.

Who do I contact if I have additional questions?

Contact aaooarts@gmail.com if you have any questions.