The competition is open to young artists of all abilities and backgrounds, aged 18 and under, who are currently living anywhere on the island of Ireland.
Entries will be exhibited online in our TIA! Digital Gallery designed to showcase the incredible diversity and creativity of young artists in Ireland today.
The theme for 2025 entries is ‘This is Nature!’, and we invite you to explore your idea of nature and create amazing works of art!
1. CREATE your artwork
You can use any media or material to create your entry. Consider the theme ‘This is Nature!’ and have fun making your work. Your artwork should be a reflection of you and your unique perspective.
PS. If you’re looking for inspiration be sure to check out the new series of This is Art Club! On RTÉ Player.
2. SNAP or SCAN a digital version of it.
Once you have completed your artwork, you must capture a high quality digital image of it. Take a high-resolution photograph or a digital scan of your artwork. The image must be sharp, clear with no shadows or obstructions. Ask a teacher or guardian for help with scanning or photographing your work.
You will also need to submit a short written introduction to your work, called an Artist Statement. This tells us what you used to make your work, what your art is about and what inspired you to create it. We really want to know!
3. UPLOAD your submission
Please check the entry guidelines on the website. Be sure to get the permission of a parent or guardian. Upload your entry to rte.ie/thisisart before midnight on 31st January.
Categories
The competition will be judged in the following categories:
7 & Under
8–11 year
12–15 year
16–18 year
Groups (schools and community groups)
Jury Panel
Winning and commended artwork will be chosen by a jury of professional artists and curators.
Prizes & Awards
Winners will be announced in February 2026.
Some works may be displayed by Local Authorities across the country and featured on various social media platforms.
First place in each category will receive a unique TIA! Grand Prix Winners trophy! There is also a prize fund of more than €10,000 for art materials, art-related learning experiences and vouchers. Please visit our website or follow us at @rtejr on Instagram to learn more about how to participate.
Download the brief