BIG10 Neuroscience
Student Art Competition

Unleash your creativity and explore the intersection of art and science in our inaugural Big Ten Neuroscience Annual Meeting Art Competition “Connecting Minds: Art, Neuroscience, and Community”

Eligibility

Open to undergraduates, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and affiliates at any Big Ten institution, neuroscience-related company, or foundation, this competition celebrates original artwork that brings the mysteries of the mind to life.

Prizes

Selected pieces will vie for cash prizes: $750 (1st place), $500 (2nd place),  $250 (3rd place), honorable mentions, and the opportunity to be showcased online, in print, and at a physical exhibition at the Palmer Museum of Art and other Penn State venues.

Entry Guidelines

  • Artwork should reflect the theme of “bringing the mysteries of mind to life.”
  • Each person can submit only one piece of artwork.
  • Artwork must be original and created by the individual.
  • Acceptable media may include drawing, painting, photography, wet-lab images, sculpture, or mixed media. If the artwork is three-dimensional, please enter a photo.
  • Artwork should be submitted as a high-resolution image (240 ppi or higher) in PDF format. Please also provide suggested printing dimensions, though we may have to adjust.

Entry Process

  • Entries must be submitted through this website. Enter your artwork here. (link to be provided)
  • Include a title for the artwork and a brief artist statement (up to 300 words) explaining the concept and inspiration behind the artwork.
  • Submission will assume acceptance of terms and conditions, outlined below.

Judging Criteria

  • Originality and creativity
  • Interpretation of the theme
  • Overall visual impact

Entry Deadline

Entries are due July 10, 2025.

Terms and Conditions

  • By entering the contest, participants agree that their artwork may be used for promotional purposes, and it may also be displayed in an online gallery, at a physical exhibition, or featured in digital or print publications by Penn State.
  • Ensure that the artwork does not infringe on any third-party rights or contain inappropriate content.

Sponsors

  • Penn State Neuroscience Institute
  • The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences
  • Penn State College of Medicine
  • Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center

Enter the Contest

Entry Deadline
July 10, 2025